Explosion at Exxon refinery in California

A “large explosion” occurred at an ExxonMobil refinery in Torrance, Calif., officials said on Wednesday.

The Los Angeles Times reports Torrance police announced a “second-alarm fire explosion” and that surrounding streets were closed. 

{mosads}Residents in the area were also told to shelter in place, turn off heating and air systems and close windows.

Todd Spitler, an ExxonMobile spokesman, said the incident happened Wednesday morning.

“Our main concern is for the safety of our employees and our neighbors,” Spitler said, according to the LA Times. “We are accounting for all personnel and still evaluating the cause of the incident, or the occurrence or amount of any damages.” 

Schools were also told to shelter in place after the explosion, after reports of poor air quality spread and what appeared to be ash in the air. 

Torrance Fire Capt. Steve Deuel said the explosion could have been caused by a petroleum product leak.