Oil refinery explosion near Texas coast forces residents to shelter in place
AP News • • nation
Key Points:
- A large explosion occurred at the Valero oil refinery in Port Arthur, Texas, causing plumes of smoke and prompting nearby residents to shelter in place; no injuries were reported.
- Mayor Charlotte M. Moses confirmed the explosion and assured the public that firefighters were working to extinguish the fire quickly.
- The Valero refinery processes about 435,000 barrels of heavy sour crude oil daily and employs around 770 people.
- Residents reported loud booms and shaking windows, leading city officials to advise staying indoors until an official "All Clear" is announced.
- The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality is monitoring air quality at the site, urging residents to limit outdoor activity and keep windows and doors closed.
