Additional Coverage:
Massive Pipeline Fire in Texas
A massive natural gas pipeline fire erupted in La Porte, Texas, on Monday, sending a towering pillar of flame over the Houston suburbs. Emergency crews evacuated residents in a nearby neighborhood and fought to prevent the fire from spreading to nearby homes.
The blaze involves a 20-inch pipeline owned by Energy Transfer. The company confirmed that the gas flow has been shut off, but it may take hours for the remaining fuel to burn off.
The cause of the fire remains unknown, but local officials have reported that a burned car was found near the source of the blaze. Energy Transfer is investigating the incident.
Firefighters were called to the scene at 9:55 a.m. after an explosion that shook the area. The smoke plume was visible from miles away. One firefighter sustained minor injuries.
Residents within the evacuation zone, including Geselle Melina Guerra, reported hearing a loud explosion and seeing bright orange flames.
La Porte city officials ordered residents in the Brookglen neighborhood to evacuate and urged the public to avoid the area. Law enforcement has cordoned off a large perimeter.
Air monitoring equipment is being set up to ensure the safety of nearby residents. Houston is a major petrochemical center, and explosions and fires are not uncommon. However, this incident has raised concerns about the safety of the industry’s operations and the potential environmental impact.