Smoke is rising above an oil refinery in the United States, and locals are being told to shelter in place after an explosion rocked the facility.
The incident happened at a refinery in Port Arthur, Texas, owned by the fuel company Valero. It employs about 770 workers, according to its website, and produces 435,000 barrels per day, processing it into gasoline, diesel and jet fuel.
The city, with a population of about 56,000, is located in the southeast corner of the state. Its police and fire departments have told residents on the west side of the city to take shelter, and the Texas Department of Transportation has told drivers to avoid the area, but there are no evacuation orders at this time.
“To ensure the safety of all residents in the vicinity in light of the recent explosion at the Valero Refinery, an immediate shelter-in-place is ordered,” said the fire department.
“For your safety, please remain in place until the all clear is given by emergency personnel.”
Police have told local media they believe an industrial heater caused the blaze, and there are no reports of injuries. (News Com)
Videos show flames and a plume of thick smoke following an explosion at a Valero oil refinery in Port Arthur, Texas.
Police have told local media they believe an industrial heater caused the blaze and there are no reports of injuries. pic.twitter.com/YIddsxmceo
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