Firefighters in the California region have contained a massive overnight blaze occurring in a jet fuel production unit at Chevron's El Segundo refinery, located some 20 miles southwest of Los Angeles.
Reports from residents indicated a significant blast around 9:30 PM local time, with flames and smoke visible from the refinery. Thankfully, city officials have stated that there is currently no public threat, and evacuation orders are not being issued.
In a recent statement, Chevron characterized the incident as an 'isolated fire', confirming that all personnel have been accounted for and no injuries occurred. The cause of the blast remains under investigation.
Authorities noted that no evacuation orders are in effect, and monitoring systems have not detected any breaches. The extent of the damage at the refinery is still unclear.
The El Segundo facility, which is Chevron's second largest in the U.S., produces 285,000 barrels of crude oil per day and is essential for supplying jet fuel in the area. Flights at the nearby Los Angeles airport continue to operate normally, as stated by Mayor Karen Bass.
El Segundo's Mayor Chris Pimentel emphasized the rapid response by firefighters, who are stationed close to the refinery. 'We are very concerned, and there is a lot of investigative work to be done to see what has happened,' said Pimentel.
Witnesses described the blaze as visible from afar, with one resident stating it felt as if they were experiencing a catastrophic event. Local officials are continuing to monitor air quality in the aftermath of the explosion.
With additional reporting from Christal Hayes in Los Angeles.
