Explosion rocks Valero refinery in Port Arthur, west-side residents ordered to shelter in place as officials monitor air quality

A powerful explosion at the Valero refinery in Port Arthur on Monday(March 23) sent a massive plume of smoke into the sky and prompted officials to order west-side residents to remain indoors. Nearby, according to the 12Newsnow website, Nederland has reported no effects from the incident.

The Port Arthur Fire Department’s Antonio Mitchell confirmed an incident at the Valero facility, though officials have released few details.

Mitchell stated shortly after the explosion that the nature of the incident was still unknown, as his crews rushed to the site.


According to the 12Newsnow website, Jefferson County Sheriff Zena Stephens said a heater unit may have been involved in the explosion. Authorities reported no injuries, have not called for evacuations, and are keeping close watch on air quality in the area.

Across the Mid-County area, witnesses reported a loud boom that shook car windows, while a nearby resident said that the air carried a strong smell of rotten eggs according to the 12News website.

Through the Southeast Texas Alerting Network, the City of Nederland stated that its police and fire departments are actively patrolling and monitoring air quality on the city’s south side.

Officials emphasized that “at this time, there is no impact to the City of Nederland,” noting they will provide updates should conditions change.

Authorities from the Texas Department of Transportation warned drivers to steer clear of the area, particularly along SH 87 and SH 82 near the refinery.