A significant explosion rocked the Valero oil refinery in Port Arthur, Texas, on Monday, generating a large fire and prompting local authorities to advise residents to shelter in place. The refinery, located around 90 miles east of Houston, experienced the blast without any reported injuries, according to officials.
Mayor Charlotte M. Moses confirmed the explosion, stating, “There's been an explosion, yes, but we're OK; everybody's OK.” She added that emergency services were working to extinguish the fire as quickly as possible. Residents on the city’s west side were urged to remain indoors until an all-clear was given.
The refinery employs approximately 770 people and processes up to 435,000 barrels of oil per day, according to Valero’s website. The plant specialises in refining heavy sour crude oil into gasoline, diesel and jet fuel. Videos and images posted online showed a large plume of smoke and flames, with some residents reporting a loud boom and shaking windows.
The City of Port Arthur posted on Facebook: “For your safety please remain in place until the ‘All Clear’ is given by emergency personnel.” Valero did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Texas state Rep. Christian Manuel stated that the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality had arrived with air monitoring equipment, urging residents to limit outdoor activity and keep windows and doors closed.
The explosion occurred amid rising petrol prices linked to global oil supply uncertainties due to the Iran conflict.
