A massive explosion was reported at a refinery operated by Valero Energy in Port Arthur. Texasprompting officials to issue shelter-in-place orders to nearby residents. Thick black smoke rose into the sky and a video circulating online captured the loud explosion.
The incident remains under investigation. According to reports, the explosion occurred at around 7:22 pm on March 23
READ MORE: Valero refinery explosion: Video shows fire, smoke in Port Arthur, Texas
Explosions, Smoke and Emergency Response
Witnesses reported hearing a loud explosion that shook nearby homes, followed by visible flames and thick smoke from the refinery site, Deep Dive reported.
Antonio Mitchell port arthur “We do not have crews on scene at this time; they are en route. The type of incident is unknown at this time,” the fire department said.
Emergency crews, including fire crews and hazmat teams, were deployed to control the situation. They confirmed the situation is active; however, they have not released any details.
No injuries have been recorded so far and authorities said no evacuations were necessary at this time.
Officials said air quality monitoring is ongoing to determine whether toxic substances have been released into surrounding areas. The shelter-in-place order will remain in effect until residents are deemed safe to resume normal activities.
To maintain safety and support emergency operations, the Texas Department of Transportation is also advising drivers to avoid SH 87 and SH 82 near the refinery, Deep Dive reported.
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One of the largest oil refineries in the United States
The Valero Port Arthur Refinery, located on the Texas Gulf Coast, approximately 90 miles east of Houston, is a large refinery with approximately 770 employees. It can produce 435,000 barrels per day of gasoline, diesel and jet fuel from heavy, sour crude oil.
According to Deep Dive, the consequences of a prolonged cessation of operations in such an important energy hub could have far-reaching consequences for the regional fuel supply chain.
As emergency operations continue, officials are expected to provide updates on containment efforts, air quality assessments and possible causes of the explosion.
Jefferson County Sheriff Zena Stephens speculated the heating unit may be the cause, but officials have not yet determined the cause.
Meanwhile, authorities urged residents to avoid spreading unverified information and instead rely on official updates.
