A powerful explosion at a major oil refinery along the Texas Gulf Coast triggered a fire and forced local authorities to urge residents to remain indoors as emergency crews worked to contain the situation.
The incident occurred at a refinery operated by Valero Energy in Port Arthur, roughly 90 miles east of Houston. Despite the dramatic blast and heavy smoke, officials confirmed that no injuries had been reported.
Port Arthur Mayor Charlotte M. Moses said firefighters responded quickly and are working to extinguish the blaze.
“There has been an explosion, but everyone is safe,” she said, while urging residents in parts of the city’s west side to stay indoors until further notice.
Authorities issued a shelter-in-place advisory as a precaution, asking residents to remain inside until emergency services declare the area safe.
The refinery is a major industrial site employing around 770 workers and capable of processing approximately 435,000 barrels of crude oil per day. It primarily handles heavy sour crude, producing fuels such as gasoline, diesel, and jet fuel.
Footage shared on social media showed flames and thick black smoke rising from the facility, while residents reported hearing a loud blast and feeling vibrations in nearby buildings.
The explosion comes at a sensitive time for global energy markets, as fuel prices continue to rise amid uncertainty surrounding oil supply linked to ongoing tensions involving Iran.
Emergency teams remain on site, and officials say updates will follow as the situation develops.
