A massive fire engulfed the Valero refinery in Port Arthur, Texas, after a reported explosion. Emergency officials are responding to the refinery as smoke rises from the facility.
Several people in the area reported hearing a loud boom and felt it rattle their homes. Police have advised people on the west side of Port Arthur to shelter in place.
The Valero facility is one of the largest oil refineries in the United States, processing crude oil into gasoline, diesel, and jet fuel at a rate of 435,000 barrels a day.
While production at the facility remains unclear, officials have reported no injuries. Road closures are expected in and around the area of Highway 82 and Highway 87.
Valero's emergency response team is responding and coordinating with local authorities, with the Texas Department of Emergency Management and the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality also on the scene.
