Massive Fire Erupts at Chevron Refinery in El Segundo, California

A massive fire broke out at Chevron's El Segundo oil refinery near Los Angeles on the night of October 2, 2025, producing large flames visible across the area and sending smoke into the night sky. The fire was contained to a single section of the refinery, with no injuries reported and all workers accounted for, according to Chevron representatives. Authorities issued a temporary shelter-in-place order for nearby Manhattan Beach, which was later lifted, while residents were advised to stay indoors due to air quality concerns; air monitors showed generally good conditions but briefly elevated particle levels. The refinery, built in 1911, is the largest on the West Coast, processing up to 290,000 barrels of crude oil daily. Fire officials and multiple departments responded quickly, and the blaze was controlled by early Friday morning. The cause of the fire remains under investigation, with officials continuing to monitor air quality and public safety.