An explosion at a Valero refinery in Port Arthur, Texas, triggered a fire Monday as officials investigate what caused the incident.
Officials ordered residents on Port Arthur’s west side, including Sabine Pass and Pleasure Island, to remain indoors as a precaution.
Crews with the Port Arthur Fire Department responded to the refinery after residents across the Mid-County area reported hearing a loud boom that rattled windows.
“The type of incident is unknown at this time,” said Antonio Mitchell with the Port Arthur Fire Department as crews arrived at the scene.
Jefferson County Sheriff Zena Stephens said the incident may have involved a heater unit, though officials have not confirmed the cause.
Authorities reported no injuries, officials accounted for all refinery personnel, and authorities have not ordered any evacuations.
Valero confirmed a fire in one of its units and said its emergency teams are coordinating with local responders.
“Currently, there is a fire in a unit at Valero’s Port Arthur, Texas refinery. All personnel have been accounted for,” the company said in a statement. “Valero’s emergency response team is responding and coordinating with local authorities.”
Emergency crews deployed additional resources, including a hazmat team, while the Beaumont Fire Department and the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office assisted at the scene.
Officials closed State Highways 82 and 87 as a precaution and urged drivers to avoid the area.
The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality deployed air monitoring teams to assess conditions around the refinery. Officials said they will provide updates as more information becomes available.
Sabine Pass Independent School District announced it will close Tuesday due to the incident. Port Arthur Mayor Charlotte Moses said some children remained in Sabine Pass as buses could not pass through road closures.
Officials in nearby Nederland said they have detected no impact within city limits. “At this time, there is no impact to the City of Nederland,” officials said, adding they continue to monitor air quality.
Authorities continue to investigate the cause of the explosion.
