Image: from Maureen Johnson X @maujohnson
By Open Chronicle with agencies
Authorities in the southern U.S. state of Louisiana are investigating an explosion and fire at the Chalmette Refinery near New Orleans after a powerful blast sent thick smoke into the air and shook nearby homes.
According to local media reports, emergency crews responded rapidly after the explosion triggered a fire inside the refinery complex.
Firefighters and refinery emergency response teams reportedly managed to contain the blaze before it spread to other sections of the facility.
🚨ANOTHER Oil Refinery Explodes Since War on Iran
The PATTERN of oil refineries worldwide exploding or catching fire since the War on Iran continues.
🇺🇸The PBF Chalmette Refinery in Louisiana exploded Friday, sending massive smoke plumes over the New Orleans area.
I wrote an… pic.twitter.com/FSYHcitxt7
— Jack Prandelli (@jackprandelli) May 8, 2026
No Injuries Reported
Officials said the fire was eventually extinguished and that no injuries were reported among refinery workers, emergency personnel or residents living in surrounding communities.
Authorities also confirmed that no evacuation orders were issued for nearby neighborhoods or schools.
Air quality monitoring conducted around the refinery reportedly did not detect dangerous contamination levels following the incident.
Residents in nearby areas described hearing a loud explosion and feeling vibrations strong enough to shake windows and homes.
Watch: Explosion at Chalmette Refinery in Louisiana; Culomn of Flames and Smoke Going into Sky
P.S. The explosion happens at a time when the U.S. is tackling an energy crisis due to its war on Iran and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. pic.twitter.com/qthDivVVND
— IranPress (@IranPress_eng) May 9, 2026
Investigation Focuses on Cause and Safety Systems
Investigators are now working to determine what caused the explosion and whether emergency alert systems functioned properly during the incident.
Officials are also expected to review refinery safety procedures and operational conditions leading up to the blast.
The Chalmette Refinery is one of Louisiana’s major industrial facilities and plays a significant role in regional fuel production and energy distribution along the Gulf Coast.
Industrial accidents at refineries remain a major safety concern in parts of the United States where large petrochemical facilities operate close to residential communities.
The incident comes amid broader concerns over energy infrastructure resilience and industrial safety across the Gulf region.
Authorities have not yet released further details regarding possible mechanical failures or operational disruptions linked to the explosion.