Massive Explosion and Fire Erupts at Valero Refinery in Port Arthur, Texas
Amid heightened U.S.-Iran tensions, some Iran-linked social media accounts and online sources claimed responsibility for the incident as sabotage. Authorities found no credible evidence of external involvement or terrorism. Officials confirmed it as an industrial accident.
RWTNews Staff
PORT ARTHUR, Texas – A large explosion and fire broke out at Valero Energy’s Port Arthur refinery on the evening of March 23, 2026, sending thick black smoke into the sky and prompting a shelter-in-place order for nearby residents.
The incident occurred at the facility’s diesel hydrotreater unit. The refinery, one of the largest in the United States with a capacity of approximately 380,000 barrels per day, reported no injuries, and all personnel were accounted for.
Jefferson County Sheriff Zena Stephens said the explosion was likely caused by a malfunctioning industrial heater. Valero confirmed a fire in one unit and said its emergency response team is coordinating with local authorities. The shelter-in-place order was later lifted after the fire was contained.
Amid heightened U.S.-Iran tensions, some Iran-linked social media accounts and online sources claimed responsibility for the incident as sabotage. Authorities found no credible evidence of external involvement or terrorism. Officials confirmed it as an industrial accident.