A large explosion at the Valero refinery in Port Arthur, Texas, sent plumes of smoke into the sky and prompted nearby residents to shelter in place.
City officials said the alert was issued “to ensure the safety of all residents” in affected areas, including Sabine Pass, Pleasure Island, and south of Highway 73, stretching west from Stirlwell Boulevard.
Mayor Charlotte Moses confirmed that no one was injured in Monday’s blast, about 90 miles (145 kilometers) east of Houston.
“There’s been an explosion, yes, but we’re OK; everybody’s OK,” she said. “They’re trying to put the fire out as quickly as possible.”
The explosion comes amid rising gas prices, fueled by uncertainty over the global oil supply linked to the conflict in Iran.
The Valero refinery employs roughly 770 people and can process about 435,000 barrels of crude oil per day, according to the company. The plant refines heavy sour crude into gasoline, diesel, and jet fuel.
Videos and images circulating online show thick smoke and flames rising from the facility, with some residents reporting a loud boom that shook their windows.
“For your safety, please remain in place until the ‘All Clear’ is given by emergency personnel,” the City of Port Arthur said on Facebook.
Texas state Rep. Christian Manuel said the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality had arrived at the refinery with air monitoring equipment and was coordinating with local and state partners. He urged residents to stay indoors, keep windows and doors closed, and follow guidance from officials.
