March 24, 2026 — A large explosion early Monday at Valero’s Port Arthur refinery on the Texas Gulf Coast sent smoke and flames into the air and led officials to issue shelter-in-place orders for parts of the city. Port Arthur Mayor Charlotte Moses said there were no fatalities or injuries and that Valero was working to contain the fire; she nonetheless urged residents on parts of the west side to remain sheltered. Valero spokesperson Carol Herbert said all personnel have been accounted for and that the company’s emergency response team was coordinating with local authorities. The refinery employs about 770 people and has a processing capacity of roughly 435,000 barrels per day, refining heavy sour crude into gasoline, diesel and jet fuel. The blast occurred as gasoline prices have been rising amid uncertainty over global oil supplies related to the conflict in Iran. Videos and photos posted online showed a large plume of smoke and visible flames; some residents reported hearing a loud boom and feeling windows shake. The City of Port Arthur asked the public on Facebook to stay in place until emergency personnel issue an all-clear. Valero did not respond to an email or call from The Associated Press seeking additional comment. Texas state Rep. Christian Manuel said the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality arrived with air-monitoring equipment and was working with local and state partners; he advised nearby residents to stay inside, limit outdoor activity, and keep windows and doors closed. Port Arthur is about 90 miles east of Houston.
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