AP
Port Arthur, Updated: 11:22 AM Mar 24, 2026 IST
A large explosion at the Valero oil refinery in Port Arthur, Texas, on Monday sent thick plumes of smoke into the air and prompted nearby residents to shelter in place, officials said.
Mayor Charlotte M. Moses said no one was injured in the blast at the plant about 145 kilometres east of Houston. She urged people on parts of the city’s west side to stay indoors as firefighters worked to control the blaze.
“There’s been an explosion, yes, but we’re OK; everybody’s OK,” the mayor said. “They’re trying to put the fire out as quickly as possible.”
The refinery employs about 770 people and can process roughly 435,000 barrels of oil per day, according to Valero’s website. The facility refines heavy sour crude into gasoline, diesel and jet fuel.
Images and video shared online showed large columns of smoke and flames. Some residents reported hearing a loud boom and feeling windows rattle.
The City of Port Arthur posted on Facebook advising residents to remain in place until emergency personnel announce an “All Clear.” Texas state Rep. Christian Manuel said the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality had arrived with air-monitoring equipment and was coordinating with local and state partners.
Manuel advised nearby residents to stay indoors, limit outdoor activity, keep windows and doors closed, and follow local officials’ guidance. Officials noted the explosion comes amid a rise in gasoline prices linked to uncertainty over global oil supplies related to the Iran conflict.
