Fire at Texas oil storage tank injures seven

SEVEN contractors were injured after a fire and explosion occurred at a crude oil storage tank in Corpus Christi, Texas.

The fire occurred at around 10:00 local time at the Magellan Midstream Partners facility in a tank that was being cleaned and inspected. The tank exploded after catching fire, injuring seven people. The fire was extinguished just after 14:00.

According to the company’s website, the terminal can store 6m barrels of crude oil and condensate. The facility has 60 storage tanks and a small refinery, that were not affected by the explosion, according to Houston newspaper Chron.

The Texas Governor, Greg Abbot, said that the state would deploy additional resources if they were needed. “The State of Texas is working closely with Magellan and Corpus Christi officials to aid in the emergency response efforts and to provide immediate help to those injured in the explosion. The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality is monitoring air quality in the area, and the Texas Division of Emergency Management is on the ground to provide support. The Texas Department of Public Safety is also working to provide assistance to first responders on the ground.”

A shelter in place order was in place for a few hours after the incident. Houston newspaper Chron reported that Fire Chief Richie Quintero said there was no air contamination or property damage. The cause of the fire is still unknown.