Shocking video has emerged on X showing a fire breaking out at the Valero refinery. port arthur, Texas After reporting explode. Emergency officials were responding to the refinery as smoke was billowing from it, Fox 10 News reported.
Some people in the area reported hearing a loud roar and feeling their homes shake. Police are reportedly advising people on the west side of Port Arthur to shelter in place.
Here is the video:
What we know about the explosion so far
The Valero plant is one of the largest refineries in the United States. According to Valero’s website, the company processes crude oil into gasoline, diesel and jet fuel at a rate of 435,000 barrels per day.
It’s unclear whether production at the plant has been affected.
Learn more | Valero Refinery Explosion: What Caused the Port Arthur, Texas Explosion?
Meanwhile, a social media post on the City of Port Arthur’s Facebook page said residents in the following areas should shelter in place until cleared:
- Head west from Stilwell.
- South of Highway 73.
- Sabine Pass.
- Happy Island.
Residents in surrounding areas are encouraged to stay indoors and keep doors and windows closed. They are asked to follow guidance from local officials, Fox 26 Houston reported.
Road closures are expected in and around Highways 82 and 87, Port Arthur officials said. Traffic is expected to enter the area from other roads.
Sheriff Zena Stephens told Fox Beaumont the explosion may have been caused by an industrial heater. No injuries were reported, according to officials.
Learn more | Valero refinery explosion, fire, smoke as Texas plant explodes: What we know so far
“Valero’s emergency response teams are responding and coordinating with local authorities,” Valero said in a statement. “As a precaution, Jefferson County officials have closed State Routes 82 and 87. As always, the safety of our workers is our top priority.”
The Texas Department of Emergency Management and the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality sent personnel to the scene.
“Emergency response coordinators and regional staff have deployed handheld and mobile air monitoring equipment in response to the Valero Fire in Port Arthur, Texas, and are coordinating activities through incident command,” TCEQ spokesperson Laura Lopez said in a statement. “We will share updates on our social media channels (Facebook and X) as soon as they become available.”
