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A major pipeline explosion in La Porte, Texas, has led to widespread evacuations, road closures, and a massive firefighting effort. The explosion, which originated in Deer Park, spread south across Spencer Highway, affecting homes and properties in La Porte. Local authorities, multiple emergency response teams, and residents are grappling with the impact of the fire, as power outages, air quality concerns and disruptions to daily life unfold.
The Explosion: Fire Spreads from Deer Park to La Porte
On Monday morning, a pipeline explosion near Spencer Highway ignited a fast-moving fire that spread from Deer Park to La Porte, two neighboring cities just outside Houston. According to reports, the fire crossed under Spencer Highway, a key road separating the two towns. The explosion caused smaller grass fires to ignite, adding to the difficulty faced by firefighters working to contain the blaze.
Early reports suggested that the fire was occurring on or near a property owned by CenterPoint Energy, though the company has since clarified that the incident is unrelated to their natural gas operations. CenterPoint is working closely with local first responders and monitoring the situation to restore electricity once it is safe. In a statement, the company emphasized that its electric crews will assess the damage to their transmission lines and other infrastructure once first responders give clearance.
Impact on Homes and Power Outages
The pipeline fire has caused significant damage to homes near the scene of the explosion. Aerial footage from the scene shows multiple houses with fire and smoke damage and emergency crews can be seen dousing the buildings with water to prevent further destruction. The fire has also led to power outages affecting thousands of customers in the Deer Park area, though some reports indicate the number of impacted households is decreasing as authorities work to restore service.
CenterPoint Energy’s outage map showed that close to 4,000 customers were initially left without power. However, power restoration efforts are ongoing, and the number of outages is being reduced gradually as the situation stabilizes.
Evacuations and Road Closures in La Porte and Deer Park
As a result of the fire, Spencer Highway has been closed in both directions, with additional closures on East Boulevard and roads near local businesses like Walmart and H-E-B. Authorities have urged drivers to avoid the area and use alternate routes.
In addition, an evacuation order has been issued for the area between Spencer Highway and Fairmont Parkway, including the Brookglen neighborhood in La Porte. The evacuation zone is concentrated between Luella and Canada streets and residents in the affected areas have been advised to leave immediately. A cooling and evacuation center has been established at the East Harris County Activity Center for those displaced by the fire.
Air Quality and Shelter in Place Orders
Air monitoring in the area has begun, with Harris County Pollution Control announcing plans to display live air quality readings. These readings, based on historical data, will show hourly spikes but are not meant to indicate whether air quality is good or bad. Concerns remain about potential exposure to harmful chemicals and residents are being advised to take precautions if they are in the vicinity.
In response to the fire, a shelter-in-place order was issued for the San Jacinto College Central Campus, which closed for the remainder of the day. Local schools, including Heritage Elementary School and College Park Elementary School in La Porte ISD, were also placed under shelter-in-place orders. The college and schools are expected to resume normal operations on Tuesday.
Ongoing Investigation and Response
Multiple agencies are on the scene, including the Deer Park Office of Emergency Management and the La Porte Fire Department. The Railroad Commission of Texas has dispatched pipeline safety inspectors to the site and is actively investigating the cause of the explosion. As more details emerge, updates on the situation will be provided.
FAQ About La Porte, Texas, and the Pipeline Fire
Where did the pipeline explosion happen?
The explosion occurred near Spencer Highway, starting in Deer Park and spreading to La Porte, Texas.
What caused the pipeline fire in La Porte?
The exact cause of the explosion is still under investigation. The Railroad Commission of Texas has sent pipeline safety inspectors to the site, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
How many homes have been affected by the fire?
At least two homes near the fire have sustained significant fire and smoke damage. Firefighters are working to prevent further damage in the surrounding neighborhoods.
What areas are under evacuation orders?
Residents between Spencer Highway and Fairmont Parkway, particularly in the Brookglen neighborhood, have been ordered to evacuate. A cooling and evacuation center has been set up at the East Harris County Activity Center.
Is the air quality safe in La Porte?
Air quality monitoring is ongoing, and live readings are being displayed by Harris County Pollution Control. While the data will show spikes in hourly air quality readings, it is not yet clear how dangerous the air is for residents in the affected areas.
Are there any road closures due to the fire?
Yes, Spencer Highway is closed in both directions, and other roads near the area, including East Boulevard, are also shut down. Authorities are advising drivers to avoid the area.
How many people have been affected by power outages?
Initially, nearly 4,000 customers were without power in Deer Park and La Porte. The number of outages has been decreasing as crews work to restore service.
What is La Porte known for?
La Porte is a city in Harris County, Texas, known for its proximity to industrial facilities and the Houston Ship Channel. The city has a rich history and is part of the larger Houston metropolitan area.