Daijiworld Media Network - Texas
Texas, Mar 24: A massive explosion at an oil refinery in Port Arthur triggered a major fire, sending thick plumes of smoke across the area, local media reports said.
The incident occurred on Monday evening at a refinery operated by Valero Energy, one of the key refining facilities in the United States with a capacity to process around 3,80,000 barrels of crude oil per day.
Officials said the blast, reportedly caused by a heater explosion around 6:30 pm, led to flames engulfing parts of the facility, with the impact felt in nearby ???????.
Authorities issued advisories urging residents in surrounding areas to remain indoors and keep windows and doors shut until further notice.
An investigation has been launched to ascertain the cause of the explosion.