Valero Refinery Fire in Port Arthur: Residents Sheltering in Place

A shelter-in-place order was issued for a portion of Port Arthur, Texas, Monday evening following an explosion at the Valero Port Arthur Refinery, authorities reported.

The Port Arthur Fire Department advised residents on the west side of the city to shelter in place following the incident, which occurred at approximately 90 miles east of Houston. The shelter-in-place order covered areas from Stilwell west, south of Highway 73, Sabine Pass, and Pleasure Island, according to a post on the City of Port Arthur Facebook page.

Smoke was visible rising from the refinery complex following the explosion, officials said. Residents in surrounding areas were urged to remain indoors with windows and doors closed and to follow guidance from local authorities.

Jefferson County officials closed State Highways 82 and 87 in anticipation of road closures in and around the refinery, and anticipated traffic disruptions on additional roadways.

Valero stated that all personnel have been accounted for following the explosion. “Valero’s emergency response team is responding and coordinating with local authorities,” the company said in a statement.

Sheriff Zena Stephens told FOX Beaumont that the explosion was likely caused by an industrial heater. No injuries have been reported at this time.

The Valero Port Arthur Refinery has a capacity to produce 380,000 barrels per day. The refinery receives crude oil by rail, marine docks, and pipelines, and distributes products via pipelines, ships, and barges.

The refinery is adjacent to the Diamond Green Diesel (DGD) plant.