A massive explosion rocked an oil refinery off the Texas coast on Monday, sending plumes of smoke and forcing nearby residents to shelter in place, officials said.
No one was injured in the explosion at the Valero refinery in Port Arthur, about 90 miles (145 kilometers) east of Houston, Mayor Charlotte M. Moses said. She urged residents in parts of the city’s west side to stay put, saying firefighters had arrived.
“Yes, there was an explosion, but we are OK; everyone is OK,” she said. “They are working hard to put out the fire as quickly as possible.”
The explosion comes as the war in Iran creates uncertainty about global oil supplies and sends natural gas prices soaring.
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.
Pictures and videos posted online showed large amounts of smoke and flames billowing from the refinery. Some residents reported hearing a loud bang and seeing their windows shaking.
“For your safety, please remain where you are until emergency personnel give the all-clear,” the City of Port Arthur posted on its Facebook page.
Valero did not respond to emails or calls from The Associated Press seeking comment.
The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality has arrived at the refinery with air monitoring equipment and is working with local and state partners, Texas Rep. Christian Manuel said in a social media post.
He told nearby residents to stay indoors.
“Please limit outdoor activities, close doors and windows, and follow the guidance of local officials,” he said.
