Thick black smoke was rising Thursday from a Valero plant in Texas City after an afternoon explosion.
Tall flames were seen at the site by end-of-day commuters.
No injuries were reported -- and the Texas City officials stated on Twitter on Thursday that there was "no need" to shelter in place.
Valerso said in a statementL:
"At approximately 5 p.m., a fire occurred at Valero's Texas City refinery. Valero's emergency response teams are on the scene. Valero has contacted local authorities and are cooperating with appropriate regulatory agencies and other key stakeholder groups. At this time, Valero has very little information as to the cause of the fire. Our primary concern is for the safety of our workers."
The plant is located on the southeast edge of Houston, near Galveston.
The Texas City Police Department set up roadblocks in the immediate area surrounding Valero.
"It is not necessary to shelter in place," the police department said in a statement. "However, we advise everyone stay clear of the area until further notice."