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By Anna Commander
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A reported explosion at the Valero Refinery in Port Arthur, Texas, has triggered an immediate shelter in place for portions of the city, police said on Monday.
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According to an alert posted to the police department's website, the shelter in place is "To ensure the safety of all residents in the vicinity and in light of the recent explosion at the Valero Refinery." The impacted areas police listed are as follows:
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-From Stilwell Boulevard west
-South of Highway 73
-Sabine Pass
-Pleasure Island
"For your safety please remain in place until the 'All Clear' is given by emergency personnel. Thank you for your cooperation," the alert continued.
Port Arthur Police Department Sergeant Calvin Walker told Newsweek via phone on Monday night that a report of a loud explosion was called in before 7 p.m. local time and that an officer in the area said he felt it move his vehicle.
Walker added that it is immediately unclear what chemical is involved, and there are no reports of injuries or fatalities.
Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton posted to X on Monday reacting to the reported explosion, saying, "Developing now: Praying immediately."
The oil refinery is about 90 miles east of Houston and has nearly 800 employees, according to its website.
The plant produces 435,000 barrels daily and processes "heavy sour crude oil and other feedstocks into gasoline, diesel and jet fuel," the website adds.
According to local station CW39, Valero released the following statement: "Currently, there is a fire in a unit at Valero’s Port Arthur, Texas refinery. All personnel have been accounted for. Valero’s emergency response team is responding and coordinating with local authorities. As a precaution, Jefferson County officials have closed State Highways 82 and 87. As always, the safety of our workers is our top priority.”
Gas Buddy's Patrick De Haan on Monday night said on X, "Valero's 435kbpd Port Arthur, TX refinery was hit by a fire and some reports of an explosion- not great timing, but beware of conspiracies- outages like this are rare but do happen- I'll follow up as more is learned."
Walker also told Newsweek around 11:30 p.m. ET that the Port Arthur Mayor's Office said the shelter in place is still in effect.
Update 3/23/26, 11:30 p.m. ET: This article has been updated with additional information.
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