Washington, March 24 (SANA) An explosion struck the Valero oil refinery in Port Arthur, Texas, in the southern United States late Monday, officials said.
In a statement reported by Agence France-Presse (AFP), refinery officials said a fire broke out at a Valero processing unit in Port Arthur, adding that efforts were underway to ensure the safety of all employees.
Emergency management authorities in Port Arthur urged residents living near the refinery to remain indoors as a precaution, while local media reported flames and a column of smoke rising from the facility.
According to Valero’s website, the refinery employs about 800 workers and can process around 435,000 barrels per day of heavy, high-sulfur crude oil.
