Marathon Refinery Fire in Texas City Prompts Shelter-in-Place Order

Refinery Fire and Shelter-in-Place

• ⚠️ A fire broke out at the Marathon refinery in Texas City, prompting a shelter-in-place order for residents.
• 💨 Smoke was visible for miles, with video capturing plumes rising from the facility.
• 🏠 Residents like Eleanor Gonzalez, living less than a mile away, reported their homes shaking and residue on their vehicles from the smoke.

Emergency Response and Resident Concerns

• 🚨 Texas City's emergency management issued a siren alert at 12:49 p.m. for the shelter-in-place.
• ⏱️ The shelter-in-place order was in effect for just over an hour before being lifted at 2:14 p.m.
• ❓ Gonzalez expressed concern and a desire for an explanation from Marathon officials regarding the cause of the fire and the potential health and environmental impacts of the smoke and residue.

Outcome and Aftermath

• ✅ Marathon confirmed that no injuries were reported as a result of the fire.
• 🚗 Residents noted the significant residue left on vehicles, highlighting concerns about unknown substances.