Massive Fire Erupts at Chevron’s El Segundo Refinery Near Los Angeles

Firefighters in El Segundo, California, successfully contained a massive overnight blaze that broke out at Chevron’s jet fuel production unit near Los Angeles. Residents reported feeling a powerful explosion around 9:30 p.m. Thursday, with flames and thick smoke lighting up the night sky.

Chevron confirmed the incident as an “isolated fire,” assuring that no injuries or evacuations occurred. All refinery staff and contractors have been accounted for. Local officials added that air quality levels are being closely monitored, though no dangerous emissions have been detected.

Located just 20 miles from downtown LA and close to LAX Airport, the El Segundo refinery—built in 1911—produces about 285,000 barrels of crude oil daily, supplying 40% of Southern California’s jet fuel.

El Segundo Mayor Chris Pimentel praised the quick response of firefighters stationed nearby, while residents described the explosion as “terrifying” and “like an earthquake.”

Flights at LAX remain unaffected, and investigations are underway to determine the cause and extent of the damage.