A shelter-in-place order was issued in Texas City, Texas, on Sunday morning after a chemical was released at a refinery, city officials said.
The city shared an alert about the situation at the Marathon Galveston Bay Refinery on its social media just after 9 a.m. local time.
Officials described the event as a “chemical release” but did not provide further details.
Residents south of the refinery were asked to stay inside with all doors and windows closed, and to turn off heat and air conditioning units until further notice.
EPA BEINGS TO REVIEW CANCER-CAUSING CHEMICAL RISKS FOLLOWING OHIO TRAIN DERAILMENT
“There are no residential areas affected, and no air monitoring readings that indicate danger to life or health,” officials wrote on X.
Drivers were urged to avoid the area. Officials said several intersections are barricaded and traffic will not be allowed through.
Officials told KTRK-TV that sulfur dioxide was released but did not elaborate.
TEXAS CHEMICAL PLANT EXPLOSION CAUSE REVEALED AFTER SHELTER-IN-PLACE ORDER LIFTED
Emergency officials were at the scene and closely monitoring the situation, city officials said.
Texas City is located in Galveston County along the southwest shoreline of Galveston Bay.