Pipeline Explosion Causes Fire and Evacuations in La Porte

A massive fire erupted on Monday morning following an explosion of a liquified natural gas pipeline in suburban Houston, specifically between Deer Park and La Porte, Texas. The fire, which involves a 20-inch pipeline owned by Energy Transfer, is expected to continue burning until it exhausts its fuel, even after the gas flow was shut off. Authorities have evacuated nearby neighborhoods and instructed schools to shelter in place due to the smoke and chemical odor that permeated the area. First responders arrived shortly after the explosion at 9:55 a.m., but there were no immediate reports of injuries, although at least one firefighter was treated for minor injuries. The La Porte Office of Emergency Management has advised residents to avoid the affected area as officials manage the situation. The cause of the explosion remains under investigation, with various local agencies monitoring the incident closely.