Firefighters in California have contained a massive overnight blaze at a jet fuel production unit at Chevron's El Segundo refinery near Los Angeles.
Residents in El Segundo, some 20 miles southwest of LA, reported feeling a major blast around 21:30 local time, with orange flames and smoke visible around the refinery.
City officials confirmed that there is no public threat or evacuation orders in place, while Chevron described the incident as an 'isolated fire,' assuring that all personnel were accounted for and there were no injuries.
The cause of the explosion remains under investigation, and it is unclear how much damage the refinery sustained. Local authorities are actively monitoring the air quality for signs of pollution.
El Segundo Mayor Chris Pimentel expressed concerns and mentioned that firefighters responded immediately to the blast, emphasizing the importance of thorough investigation.
Meanwhile, flights at Los Angeles airport continue to operate normally, and the refinery, which produces a significant portion of California’s fuel, remains crucial to the region's fuel supply.
Resident experiences varied, with one stating they thought 'we got nuked or something,' highlighting the severity of the blast that illuminated night skies and filled the air with the smell of petrol.
As investigations unfold, city officials continue to monitor the situation closely, reassuring the public of their safety and the refinery's operational status.
