Explosion and fire at an oil refinery in Texas; residents urged to stay indoors
A massive fire broke out at the huge Valero oil refinery in Port Arthur, Texas, on Monday night, following a powerful explosion that shook nearby homes and sent thick black smoke billowing into the city's sky.
Emergency teams rushed to the scene after receiving multiple reports from residents about hearing a loud explosion, according to KPLC reports.
BREAKING: Massive explosion at the Valero Oil Refinery in Port Arthur, Texas sends towering clouds of black smoke and intense flames shooting into the sky.
This is one of America's largest oil refineries (335,000+ barrels/day capacity).
Emergency crews responding with no… pic.twitter.com/Vc1jLEBPg2 — Ed Krassenstein (@EdKrassen) March 24, 2026
The refinery, which processes 435,000 barrels of crude oil per day to produce gasoline, diesel, and jet fuel, is one of the largest facilities in the region.
KDFM reported that Jefferson County Sheriff Zena Stevens stated the explosion was likely caused by an industrial heater.
The incident prompted officials to issue an immediate stay-at-home order for the western part of the city, encouraging residents in the surrounding area to close their windows and doors, turn off their air conditioners, and follow the instructions of local authorities.
So far, no injuries or fatalities have been reported, and firefighting efforts and the investigation into the cause are ongoing.
