An explosion followed by a large fire occurred at the Valero Energy Corporation refinery located in Port Arthur, causing a loud bang that alarmed residents and a dense column of smoke visible for thousands around.

According to reports from local media such as KPLC, “several people in the neighborhood reported hearing a loud bang that shook their homes,” This prompted a rapid mobilization of emergency teams to the industrial complex. Videos circulating on social media showed “a large fire and a dense column of black smoke rising into the sky,” while surveillance camera footage captured the exact moment of the explosion, accompanied by a powerful blast. The refinery, estimated to be one of the largest in the region, has the capacity to process approximately 435,000 barrels of crude oil per day to produce gasoline, diesel, and jet fuel. In preliminary information, Jefferson County Sheriff Zena Stephens stated that “the explosion was likely caused by an industrial heater,” although investigations are ongoing to determine the exact cause of the incident. Following the explosion, authorities issued a shelter-in-place order for the western part of the city. Local police indicated that residents should “remain in their homes, keep windows and doors closed, and follow all official instructions.” So far, no casualties have been reported, although initially “it was unclear if there were any injuries,” according to preliminary reports.