Mon Sep 16 16:08:58 UTC 2024: ## Pipeline Explosion Near Houston Sparks Evacuations and Hours-Long Fire
**DEER PARK, Texas (AP) –** A massive pipeline explosion near Houston sent a towering flame into the air for hours on Monday, forcing evacuations and prompting shelter-in-place orders. The incident, which started after a vehicle drove through a fence and struck an above-ground valve, caused damage to surrounding structures and left thousands without power.
Authorities ruled out any signs of terrorism and are currently investigating the incident to identify the driver. Officials emphasized that the fire, caused by the burning of natural gas liquids in the pipeline, would burn itself out over several hours.
Firefighters were dispatched shortly after 9:55 am after the explosion rattled homes and businesses, including a nearby Walmart. The blaze forced evacuations of nearly 1,000 homes and prompted a shelter-in-place order for several schools.
“The fire, it’s very hot, so a lot of the house structures that are adjacent to that are still catching on fire even though we’re putting a lot of water on them,” said Deer Park Mayor Jerry Mouton Jr.
Despite the extensive damage and evacuations, only one firefighter was initially reported injured, although Deer Park officials later confirmed four people sustained injuries.
The pipeline’s owner, Dallas-based Energy Transfer, is monitoring the air quality near the plume of fire and smoke, visible from miles away. Authorities reported moderate levels of particulate matter in the smoke, but no volatile organic compounds were detected.
Experts say letting the fire burn itself out is the best option from an environmental perspective, as attempting to extinguish it could release more volatile organics into the atmosphere. However, the incident will undoubtedly have negative environmental consequences, including the release of soot and other materials.
The Railroad Commission of Texas, which regulates oil and gas in the state, is investigating the incident and has asked other pipeline operators to review their safety measures.
The incident highlights the dangers associated with the extensive network of pipelines in Houston, a region known as the nation’s petrochemical heartland.
“In the grand scheme of things,” said Ramanan Krishnamoorti, a petroleum engineering professor at the University of Houston, “the fire won’t be a major disrupter of supply chains.” However, the incident serves as a reminder of the need for continued focus on safety measures within the industry.
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