A large explosion at an oil refinery near the Texas coast on Monday sent plumes of smoke into the air and forced nearby residents to shelter in place, as reported by officials.
According to Mayor Charlotte M. Moses, there were no injuries in the explosion at the Valero refinery in Port Arthur, about 90 miles (145 kilometers) east of Houston. She advised residents in the affected area to remain indoors while firefighters responded to the incident.
There’s been an explosion, yes, but we’re OK; everybody’s OK, she stated. They’re trying to put the fire out as quickly as possible.
This occurrence comes during a significant spike in gas prices, affected by uncertainties surrounding the global oil supply amid escalating tensions in the Iran region.
Valero's Port Arthur refinery, which has approximately 770 employees, is capable of processing about 435,000 barrels of oil per day, converting heavy sour crude oil into gasoline, diesel, and jet fuel.
Images and videos shared online depict substantial smoke and flames rising from the facility. Reports from local residents noted a loud boom, with some stating their windows shook from the impact.
The City of Port Arthur cautioned, For your safety please remain in place until the ‘All Clear’ is given by emergency personnel, through a Facebook post.
The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality has also arrived at the refinery with air monitoring gear, collaborating with local and state officials. State Rep. Christian Manuel urged residents to stay inside and limit outdoor activities.
Please limit outdoor activity, keep windows and doors closed, and follow guidance from local officials,” he advised.
