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A massive pipeline explosion erupted in Deer Park, Texas, this morning, closing highways, threatening nearby homes, and prompting evacuation and shelter-in-place orders for those living, working, and attending school nearby.
20-Inch Energy Transfer Natural Gas Liquids Pipeline Erupted in Flames
The Deer Park pipeline explosion erupted shortly before 10:00 a.m. local time in the 8700 block of Spencer Highway. While the blast occurred near a property owned by CenterPoint Energy, authorities have since confirmed that the incident involved a 20-inch natural gas liquids pipeline operated by Energy Transfer.
The explosion sent a tower of fire into the air that was visible for several miles. Unfortunately, the flames proceeded to spread rapidly, igniting smaller grass fires that crews worked to keep under control. Video taken by local media indicated that some structures had also been damaged, and fire crews could be seen pouring water on nearby homes.
According to media reports, multiple agencies responded to the scene, including crews from Deer Park and La Porte. Fortunately, it does not appear that anyone has been hurt.
Deer Park Pipeline Explosion Forces Evacuations in Brookglen Neighborhood
Spencer Highway is currently closed in both directions due to the Energy Transfer pipeline explosion, and the southbound lanes of East Boulevard are shut toward Spencer. Access to a nearby Wal-Mart and HEB store has also been blocked, and authorities are warning motorists to avoid the area.
An evacuation has been ordered for people living and working in the Brookglen neighborhood between Spencer and Fairmont Parkway and Luella to Canada Road. As of this morning, the SouthEast Texas Regional Advisory Council was also prepping for the possible evacuation of an unspecified assisted living facility.
The La Porte Independent School District campus is under a modified shelter-in-place order. Students at Heritage Elementary School are being kept inside and all outdoor activities are cancelled. While there are no plans to release students early, a district spokesperson told Houston Public Radio that could change if the situation deteriorates.
Deer Park Independent School District is not sheltering in place but also canceled outdoor activities for the remainder of the school day. Students at the San Jacinto College Central Campus are being urged to shelter-in-place until the all clear is given.
Passenger Car May Have Triggered Energy Transfer Pipeline Explosion
There have been several reports of power outages related to the Energy Transfer pipeline explosion. CenterPoint is monitoring the situation and has confirmed that the incident is unrelated to its natural gas operations or equipment.
“When it is safe to do so, our electric crews will go into the area to assess the damage to our transmission and distribution power lines, poles and equipment and begin restoring service to impacted customers as safely and quickly as possible,” the company’s statement said.
The cause of the Deer Park pipeline explosion remains under investigation. However, Fox-26 in Houston has reported that an unknown passenger car may have entered the right-of-way and struck a valve on the pipeline, potentially triggering the blast.
According to Energy Transfer, the pipeline has been isolated, and residual product is being allowed to burn off. However, it’s not clear how long that may take.
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Our Undefeated Houston Explosion Lawyers are monitoring the ongoing Energy Transfer pipeline explosion in Deer Park and La Porte and will post an update when new information becomes available.
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