An explosion at an oil refinery in Texas has forced residents to stay indoors

The explosion occurred on Monday at the Valero oil refinery in Port Arthur, approximately 145 kilometres east of Houston. According to Mayor Charlotte M. Moses, no one was injured in the incident, the AP reports.

She urged residents in the western part of the city to stay at home while the clean-up operation is underway. Firefighters have arrived at the scene.

“There’s an explosion, but we’re fine, everyone’s fine. They’re trying to put out the fire as quickly as possible,” said Moses.

According to Valero, the plant employs around 770 people and has a processing capacity of approximately 435,000 barrels of oil per day. The plant specialises in refining heavy sulphurous crude oil into petrol, diesel and aviation fuel.

Photos and videos posted online show heavy smoke and flames on the plant’s premises. Some residents reported a loud explosion and windows rattling in their homes.

Port Arthur city authorities have urged people to stay at home until they receive clearance from the emergency services.

Texas State Representative Christian Manuel reported that representatives from the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality are on site with air monitoring equipment. They are coordinating with local and state agencies.

He also urged residents to limit their time outdoors, keep windows and doors closed, and follow the instructions of local authorities.