diff --git a/openmc/deplete/openmc_operator.py b/openmc/deplete/openmc_operator.py
index 74dbf8fee..ad7a3924b 100644
--- a/openmc/deplete/openmc_operator.py
+++ b/openmc/deplete/openmc_operator.py
@@ -213,7 +213,7 @@ class OpenMCOperator(TransportOperator):
                     msg = (f"Nuclilde {nuclide} in material {mat.id} is not "
                            "present in the depletion chain and has no cross "
                            "section data.")
-                    raise warn(msg)
+                    warn(msg)
             if mat.depletable:
                 burnable_mats.add(str(mat.id))
                 if mat.volume is None: