A powerful explosion has occurred at the 435,000 barrels-per-day Valero oil refinery, the largest independent refinery in the United States, sending thick smoke into the air and prompting emergency warnings for nearby residents.
The incident happened on Monday in Port Arthur, about 145 kilometres east of Houston. Authorities swiftly advised people in parts of the city to remain indoors while emergency responders worked to contain the situation.
Mayor Charlotte M. Moses confirmed that no injuries or deaths were recorded, noting that firefighters were already on site tackling the fire.
“There’s been an explosion, but everyone is safe,” she said, assuring residents that efforts were underway to bring the blaze under control.
Officials issued a “shelter-in-place” directive, urging residents to stay indoors until an all-clear notice is given by emergency personnel.
The explosion comes amid rising global fuel prices linked to uncertainty in oil supply, partly driven by tensions involving Iran.
The refinery, which employs about 770 workers, processes heavy crude oil into key products including gasoline, diesel, and jet fuel. Eyewitness footage shared online showed flames and thick smoke rising from the facility, while some residents reported hearing a loud blast that shook nearby buildings.
State representative Christian Manuel said environmental officials had deployed air monitoring equipment to assess potential risks and were coordinating with local and state agencies. He also advised residents to keep windows and doors closed and limit outdoor activities.
Preliminary reports from local authorities indicate that an industrial heater may have triggered the explosion.
Data from the U.S. Energy Information Administration shows that Texas leads the United States in refining capacity, with a large concentration of facilities along the Gulf Coast. These refineries, particularly around Houston and Port Arthur, play a vital role in supplying fuel and petrochemical products across the country.
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