Locals told to shelter after huge explosion at Texas oil refinery

WorldEnvironment
24 Mar 2026 • 5:17 PM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

image is not available

  • A significant explosion occurred at the Valero oil refinery in Port Arthur, Texas, on Monday, sending large plumes of smoke into the sky.
  • Despite the dramatic scenes, officials confirmed that no injuries were reported following the incident.
  • Local residents in parts of Port Arthur were urged to shelter in place and limit outdoor activity as emergency services responded to the fire.
  • The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality deployed air monitoring equipment to the site to assess environmental impact.
  • The incident happened amidst a period of rising petrol prices, linked to global oil supply uncertainties.

IN FULL