Valero Port Arthur refinery explosion prompts shelter-in-place; officials report no injuries

Published March 24, 2026 — A large Valero Port Arthur refinery explosion sent thick plumes of smoke into the air on March 23, 2026, prompting shelter-in-place orders for residents on parts of the city's west side and activating the refinery's emergency response teams.

Port Arthur Mayor Charlotte Moses said there were no fatalities or injuries and that Valero was working to contain the fire; she added there were no air-quality issues as of late Monday. Refinery spokesperson Carol Herbert said all personnel had been accounted for and that Valero's emergency responders were coordinating with local authorities. Images and video circulating online showed a large smoke column and flames; residents reported hearing a loud boom and feeling windows shake. The city posted orders advising people to remain indoors until an all-clear, and State Representative Christian Manuel said the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality had arrived with air-monitoring equipment and was partnering with local and state officials. The refinery employs about 770 people and has crude capacity near 435,000 barrels per day, processing heavy sour crude into gasoline, diesel and jet fuel. Valero did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

Port Arthur is about 90 miles east of Houston. The incident unfolded during a period of higher gasoline prices tied to global supply uncertainty linked to conflict involving Iran, adding broader market context to the timing of the blast.