A strong explosion was reported at a refinery run by Valero Energy in Port Arthur. Following the incident, officials asked nearby residents to stay indoors as a precaution.

Thick black smoke rose high into the sky after the blast. At the same time, videos shared online captured the loud sound of the explosion moments after it occurred.

Authorities confirmed that the incident happened on March 23 at around 7:22 p.m. Investigations are still ongoing to determine what caused the explosion.

Blast, Smoke and Emergency Response

According to reports, people in the area said they heard a powerful explosion that shook their homes. Soon after, flames and heavy smoke were seen coming from the refinery.

Antonio Mitchell from the Port Arthur Fire Department said, “We don't have units at the scene currently; they're en route. The type of incident is unknown at this time.”

Emergency teams, including firefighters and hazardous materials (hazmat) units, were quickly sent to the site. Officials confirmed that the situation is active, but they have not yet shared detailed information.

So far, no injuries have been reported. Authorities also said there is no immediate need for evacuations.

JUST IN: Explosion reported at Valero refinery in Port Arthur, Texas. Nearby residents told to shelter in place. How much affected oil chain supply to all nations ? pic.twitter.com/1nH3AXIbhw

— Dr. Monu Goyal (@monugoyalr) March 24, 2026

Meanwhile, teams are checking air quality to find out if any harmful chemicals have been released. The shelter-in-place order will continue until officials confirm it is safe for residents to go back to normal activities.

The Texas Department of Transportation has also advised drivers to avoid nearby roads, including SH 87 and SH 82, to allow emergency crews to work without disruption.

A Major Refinery with High Output

The Valero refinery in Port Arthur is one of the largest in the United States. It is located along the Texas Gulf Coast, about 90 miles east of Houston, and employs around 770 workers.

The facility can produce up to 435,000 barrels of fuel per day, including gasoline, diesel, and jet fuel, using heavy sour crude oil.

Experts say that if operations at such a major refinery stop for a long time, it could disrupt fuel supply chains across the region.

Cause Still Unknown, Officials Urge Caution

Authorities are continuing their response and are expected to share updates on the situation, including air quality results and the cause of the explosion.

Jefferson County Sheriff Zena Stephens suggested that a heating unit might have triggered the blast. However, officials have not confirmed the exact cause yet.

At the same time, authorities have asked the public not to spread unverified information and to rely only on official updates.