A fire at California’s Martinez Refining Company injured six workers.
A large fire at a Martinez, California refinery Saturday triggered a temporary shelter-in-place order for nearby communities due to air quality concerns. The order has since been lifted.
The Mercury News reported that a hydrocarbon leak caused an explosion, igniting the blaze. Contra Costa County Fire Protection District Battalion Chief Bob Atlas described the fire as “burning ferociously,” with an undetermined amount of fuel remaining, adding that the smoke would eventually become toxic.
Social media videos showed the Martinez Refining Company facility engulfed in flames, with plumes of black smoke billowing over neighboring areas.
The company confirmed six injuries; four workers were transported, while two received on-site treatment and were released.
Sirens blaring here in Martinez as the Refinery here has been on fire for hours.
Local air quality alerts are issues for Martinez, Pacheco and Clyde
— Jack Molmud (@jmolmud)
Martinez Refining Company reported the fire at 1:47 pm local time, noting potential respiratory impacts on nearby residents. Their HAZMAT team is investigating potential community health effects.
🇺🇲🔥 Large fire erupts at the Martinez refinery in Contra Costa County, California.
— AMK News (@AmkBreaking)
Local health authorities later reported improved air quality near the refinery, though a Public Health Advisory remained in effect for Martinez, parts of Pacheco, and Clyde as of 2:45 pm.
The San Francisco Chronicle, citing the state’s Office of Emergency Services, reported at least 500 pounds (227kg) of sulfur dioxide were released. Contra Costa County stated, according to the Chronicle, that the refinery (operated by PBF Energy) must submit a report detailing the fire’s cause, per Martinez’s Industrial Safety Ordinance.