Local authorities in Port Arthur have issued an urgent shelter-in-place order following an explosion at the Valero Energy Corporation refinery on Monday.
Emergency management officials warned residents living near the refinery to remain indoors immediately “in light of the recent explosion.” The directive covers a wide area surrounding the facility, as officials work to contain the situation and ensure public safety.
In a statement, Valero confirmed that a fire had broken out within one of the refinery’s processing units. The company added that all personnel had been accounted for and emphasized that worker safety remains its top priority.
Eyewitness reports and local media footage showed towering flames and thick black smoke rising into the sky. Residents nearby described hearing a loud explosion that shook homes and rattled windows, sparking fear across the community.
The refinery, located roughly 90 miles east of Houston, is one of the largest in the region. It processes heavy sour crude oil into essential fuels such as gasoline, diesel, and jet fuel, with a capacity of approximately 435,000 barrels per day. The facility also provides employment for nearly 800 workers.
Authorities have not yet confirmed the cause of the explosion, and investigations are expected to follow once the fire is fully contained.
