The search for nine missing individuals following a chemical tank explosion in Longview, Washington, has shifted from rescue to recovery, with authorities fearing a total of 11 fatalities. The incident, which involved a 900,000-gallon vat at the Nippon Dynawave Packaging facility, has also led to environmental contamination in the Columbia River.

• 01The explosion occurred at the Nippon Dynawave Packaging facility in Longview, Washington.
• 02Authorities confirmed two fatalities and fear a total of 11 dead, with nine individuals still unaccounted for.
• 03The chemical involved, 'white liquor', is a hazardous solution used in paper production that can cause severe burns.
• 04Contamination from the incident has entered the Columbia River, but no immediate health risks to air quality or drinking water have been identified.
• 05Approximately 550,000-570,000 gallons of the chemical solution leaked from the tank, with ongoing environmental assessments.

The chemical tank explosion poses significant risks to public safety and the environment, affecting local residents and the Columbia River.