Storage tank at Washington facility ruptures, several people suffer chemical burns, one person dies

Nine patients at the scene were transported to PeaceHealth St. John’s Medical Center longviewthe hospital told ABC. One of them died from his injuries. The tank containing the solution imploded at around 7.15am local time.

Meanwhile, six other patients admitted to St. John’s are in stable condition and two other injured have been transferred, the hospital told ABC.

Longview Fire Department Battalion Chief Mike Gorsuch described the aftermath of the incident as a “mass casualty scene,” according to the Associated Press.

In a joint statement after the tank ruptured, Japan’s Dynawave Packaging Co. and local law enforcement said it had caused “several serious injuries” as well as deaths. While the actual number of people affected was not disclosed, authorities said some victims suffered burns or inhalation injuries, the Associated Press reported, adding they further assured the public that there was no immediate threat.

Meanwhile, crews on site are continuing recovery efforts, with some waiting at the facility’s entrance seeking information about loved ones who work there. The joint statement said no information about the victim would be forwarded without notifying the victim’s relatives.

Chemical tanks at the facility where the rupture occurred allegedly contained a chemical agent known as “white liquor,” a corrosive substance composed of sodium hydroxide and sodium sulfide. It is primarily used to break down wood to make kraft paper, a durable paper used in packaging, shopping bags and other products.

The incident occurred while thousands of Southern California residents were still Evacuating The order was issued due to concerns about chemical tanks overheating and exploding. although a crack in While the tank has been relieved of pressure and minimized the possibility of an explosion, it is still not safe enough for the return of the 16,000 people living near the shuttle, according to the Associated Press.