Explosion Rocks Texas Oil Refinery Amid Iran war

Darwin, 24 March: A powerful explosion struck an oil refinery in the southern U.S. state of Texas, prompting authorities to urge nearby residents to remain indoors as a precaution.

The blast occurred Monday evening local time at a diesel hydrotreater unit in Port Arthur, according to Reuters. The explosion triggered a fire, leading to the shutdown of the refinery, which has a production capacity of 380,000 barrels per day.

The incident took place at the refinery’s Unit 243, located in eastern Texas near the Louisiana border. The unit itself is capable of processing up to 47,000 barrels of oil daily.

The explosion comes at a time of heightened global energy concerns.

Earlier on Monday, Fatih Birol, head of the International Energy Agency, warned that the world is facing an energy crisis potentially more severe than the 1970s oil shock and the aftermath of the Ukraine war. He cited disruptions to global supply chains amid the ongoing U.S.-Israel conflict with Iran.

Residents in the area reported that the explosion was so intense it shook nearby neighborhoods and could be heard up to 11 miles away.

Mayor Charlotte M. Moses confirmed that no injuries were reported and reassured the public that emergency crews were working swiftly to contain the fire. She also urged residents in the western part of the city to stay indoors.

Jefferson County Sheriff Zena Stephens said the explosion likely originated from a heater unit. Officials from the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality are monitoring air quality in the area.

Local police and fire departments issued emergency alerts, advising residents to shelter in place. Interim Fire Chief Louis Havens stated that two fire engines were initially dispatched, and a hazardous materials (HazMat) team is being deployed. He confirmed there were no casualties or fatalities.

The refinery, operated by Valero Energy in Port Arthur, employs around 770 workers. According to the company, the facility processes approximately 435,000 barrels of heavy, sour crude oil per day into gasoline, diesel, and jet fuel.