Large Explosion Rocks Oil Refinery Near Texas Coast

Residents ordered to shelter in place as firefighters battle blaze at Valero refinery in Port Arthur

Mar. 24, 2026 at 11:18pm

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A large explosion rocked an oil refinery near the Texas coast on Monday, sending plumes of smoke into the air and forcing nearby residents to shelter in place. The blast occurred at the Valero refinery in Port Arthur, about 90 miles east of Houston. No injuries were reported, but the explosion comes amid a spike in gas prices driven by uncertainty over the global oil supply due to the ongoing Iran war.

Why it matters

The Valero refinery is a major facility that can process up to 435,000 barrels of oil per day, making it a critical part of the regional energy infrastructure. Disruptions at the plant could impact fuel supplies and prices in the surrounding area. The explosion also raises concerns about the safety and security of oil refineries, which are considered potential targets for attacks or accidents.

The details

The explosion occurred on Monday at the Valero refinery in Port Arthur, Texas. Firefighters were called to the scene to battle the blaze. Mayor Charlotte M. Moses urged nearby residents on the west side of the city to shelter in place as a precaution. Images and video posted online showed a large plume of smoke and flames billowing from the refinery. Some residents reported hearing a loud boom and feeling their windows shake.

  • The explosion occurred on Monday, March 24, 2026.

The players

Valero

A major oil refining company that operates the refinery in Port Arthur, Texas where the explosion took place. The refinery can process up to 435,000 barrels of oil per day.

Charlotte M. Moses

The mayor of Port Arthur, Texas, who urged nearby residents to shelter in place following the explosion at the Valero refinery.

Christian Manuel

A Texas state representative who said the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality had arrived at the refinery with air monitoring equipment to work with local and state partners.

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What they’re saying

“There's been an explosion, yes, but we're OK; everybody's OK. They're trying to put the fire out as quickly as possible.”

— Charlotte M. Moses, Mayor of Port Arthur, Texas

“Please limit outdoor activity, keep windows and doors closed, and follow guidance from local officials.”

— Christian Manuel, Texas State Representative

What’s next

The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality is monitoring air quality in the area, and local authorities are working to contain the fire and assess any potential damage or environmental impact from the explosion.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the potential risks and vulnerabilities of the oil and gas industry, especially in regions with a high concentration of refining and petrochemical facilities. It also underscores the importance of robust emergency response planning and coordination between industry, local governments, and regulatory agencies to protect public safety and the environment in the event of such incidents.