Valero refinery blast in Texas sends smoke and flames into the air

An explosion at Valero's Port Arthur refinery in Texas produced visible smoke and flames; officials reported no injuries and emergency teams are on scene to contain the fire and monitor air quality.

An explosion occurred Monday at Valero's refinery near Port Arthur on the Texas Gulf Coast. The event sent smoke and flames into the air and led local officials to issue a shelter-in-place advisory for parts of the city. Port Arthur's mayor and Valero representatives reported that there were no fatalities or injuries and that emergency teams were responding. State and local agencies were reported to be on site to monitor the situation. What officials reported: - Port Arthur Mayor Charlotte Moses said there were no fatalities and no injuries. - Valero stated that all personnel have been accounted for and that its emergency response team is coordinating with local authorities. - The City of Port Arthur posted a shelter-in-place advisory for portions of the west side until an "All Clear" is given by emergency personnel. - The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality arrived with air monitoring equipment and was working with local and state partners. Summary: The blast produced visible smoke and prompted local shelter-in-place guidance while responders work to contain the fire and monitor air quality. Undetermined at this time.