A large explosion occurred at an oil refinery near the Texas coast on Monday, sending plumes of smoke into the air 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 home, saying firefighters had arrived.
“There was an explosion, yes, but we are fine, everyone is fine,” she said. “They are trying to put out the fire as quickly as possible.”
The explosion comes in the middle Gas prices rise Driven by uncertainty about global oil supplies due to the war with Iran.
The refinery employs 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 and turns it into gasoline, diesel and jet fuel.
Pictures and videos posted online show a large column of smoke and flames rising from the refinery. Some residents reported hearing a loud bang and seeing their windows shaking.
“For your safety, please remain where you are until a clear order is issued by emergency personnel,” the City of Port Arthur said in a post on its Facebook page.
Valero did not respond to an email or phone call from The Associated Press seeking comment.
Texas State Rep. Christian Manuel said in a social media post that the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality arrived at the refinery with air monitoring equipment and was working with local and state partners.
Nearby residents were asked to stay inside.
“Please limit outdoor activities, keep windows and doors closed, and follow the guidance of local officials,” he said.