High flames and a column of black smoke rose from the Valero energy corporation's oil refinery in Port Arthur, Texas on 23/3, as seen in media images. Residents nearby reported hearing a loud explosion that shook their windows.

Following the explosion at the Valero oil refinery, officials from the Port Arthur city emergency response agency immediately issued a shelter-in-place order. This measure was taken to ensure the safety of residents in the vicinity, with the order applying to a wide area around the refinery.

Valero confirmed a fire at a unit within its Port Arthur oil refinery, stating that all personnel were safe.

Sheriff Zena Stephens indicated an industrial heating device likely caused the explosion. Sources reported that the plant has not yet decided to halt all operations following the fire.

The Port Arthur refinery employs nearly 800 staff and processes high-sulfur heavy crude oil and other inputs into gasoline, diesel, and jet fuel. Its capacity is approximately 435,000 barrels per day, according to Valero's website.

By Huyen Le (AFP, KFDM)