Valero refinery has released a statement after emergency officials responded as smoke was seen rising from the facility after a reported explosion. Videos showed a large fire at Valero refinery in Port Arthur, Texas.
Valero's emergency response team is responding and coordinating with local authorities, with Jefferson County officials closing State Highways 82 and 87 as a precaution. The safety of workers is the top priority.
The Texas Department of Emergency Management and the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality have personnel at the scene, with emergency response coordinators and regional staff deployed with air monitoring assets.
Residents in the surrounding areas have been encouraged to remain indoors, keep windows and doors closed, and follow guidance from local officials. Road closures in and around the area can be expected.
The refinery employs nearly 800 employees and processes 435,000 barrels of oil per day, producing gasoline, diesel, and jet fuel.
