March 24, 2026 / 4:39 AM EDT / CBS/AP
A large explosion at the Valero refinery near the Texas Gulf Coast on Monday sent plumes of smoke and flames into the air and prompted shelter-in-place orders for some nearby residents.
Port Arthur Mayor Charlotte Moses told CBS News, “We had no fatalities and no injuries! Valero is working diligently to contain the fire and currently we have no air quality issues.” She nevertheless urged residents in parts of the west side of the city to remain sheltered.
In a statement, refinery spokesperson Carol Herbert said, “All personnel have been accounted for. Valero’s emergency response team is responding and coordinating with local authorities. … As always, the safety of our workers is our top priority.”
The Port Arthur refinery employs about 770 people and has a processing capacity of roughly 435,000 barrels per day, according to Valero. The plant refines heavy sour crude into gasoline, diesel and jet fuel. The explosion comes amid a recent rise in gasoline prices tied to uncertainty over global oil supplies related to the Iran war.
Images and video posted online showed a large plume of smoke and visible flames. Some residents reported hearing a loud boom and feeling their windows shake.
The City of Port Arthur posted on Facebook: “For your safety please remain in place until the ‘All Clear’ is given by emergency personnel.”
Valero did not respond to an email or call from The Associated Press seeking comment. 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. He advised nearby residents to stay inside and “Please limit outdoor activity, keep windows and doors closed, and follow guidance from local officials.”
Port Arthur is about 90 miles east of Houston.