A significant explosion at an oil refinery near the Texas coast on Monday sent plumes of smoke billowing into the sky, prompting local residents to shelter in place.
The incident occurred at the Valero refinery in Port Arthur, situated approximately 90 miles east of Houston. Officials confirmed that, despite the dramatic scenes, no injuries were reported.
Mayor Charlotte M. Moses addressed the community, urging residents in parts of the city's west side to remain indoors as emergency services responded. "There's been an explosion, yes, but we're OK; everybody's OK," she stated, adding, "They're trying to put the fire out as quickly as possible."
The explosion comes amid a spike in gas prices driven by uncertainty over the global oil supply because of the Iran war.
The refinery has about 770 employees and can process about 435,000 barrels of oil per day, according to Valero’s website. The plant refines heavy sour crude oil into gasoline, diesel and jet fuel, according to the website.
Images and video posted online show a large plume of smoke and flames billowing out from the refinery. Some residents reported hearing a loud boom and seeing their windows shake.
“For your safety please remain in place until the ‘All Clear’ is given by emergency personnel,” the City of Port Arthur said in a post on its Facebook page.
Valero did not immediately respond to an email or call from The Associated Press seeking comment.
Texas state Rep. Christian Manuel said in a post on social media that the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality had arrived at the refinery with air monitoring equipment and was working with local and state partners.
He told nearby residents to stay inside.
“Please limit outdoor activity, keep windows and doors closed, and follow guidance from local officials,” he said.
