LIVE UPDATES: La Porte pipeline fire’s impact and response efforts continue into third day
LA PORTE, Texas - The fire at an Energy Transfer, pipeline has burned into its third day, causing disruptions and safety concerns. The fire, which began near the intersection of Spencer Highway and Canada Road, remains a significant concern. Spencer Highway, adjacent to the Walmart where the blaze originated, is still closed off to traffic. Emergency crews are on-site, and the fire's flames can be seen burning in the distance.
ORIGINAL STORY: La Porte pipeline fire near Spencer Highway causes road closures, evacuations, 4 total injuries reported
Evacuation orders and resident updates
As of 6 p.m., Deer Park officials stated residents in Deer Park and La Porte will be allowed to return to their homes.
The Office of Emergency Management has begun lifting evacuation orders for some parts of the affected area, although many residents are still asked to stay away from their homes today. Those who have been evacuated were briefly allowed to check their properties, particularly those left without power following the initial explosion.
Pipeline status
Crews are working complete repairing infrastructure by 6 p.,. on Thursday and anticipate the fire will be extinguished within 2-3 hours afterwards.
Aerial views from Skyfox show firefighting efforts on both sides of the blaze. This precaution is part of a larger effort to bring the fire under control. Once the flames are extinguished, first responders will use a flare gun to check if the fire could reignite before allowing residents to return to their homes. Air quality checks are ongoing, and residents in sensitive groups are advised to remain indoors.
Crews are engaged in digging operations around the exposed pipeline, working to control the situation.
Latest statement from Energy Transfer as of 9:20 a.m.
"As of this morning, the fire is gradually burning itself out, and the flame has decreased overnight. Our air quality checks show no issues. We’re installing special equipment on either side of the damaged pipeline to speed up repairs. Once this equipment is in place, we’ll use nitrogen to extinguish the fire and start fixing the damage. We’re letting the fire burn off safely to manage the situation. We’ve arranged for lodging for affected landowners at nearby hotels until evacuation orders are lifted. Local law enforcement is investigating the cause of the damage, and we’re working closely with them and other authorities. We appreciate the efforts of everyone involved and will keep you updated with any new information."
Power outages
CenterPoint Energy has confirmed around 4:20 p.m. they have completed repairs to all of the distribution lines effected by the pipeline fire.
CenterPoint Energy has successfully restored power to many homes and businesses and is continuing its efforts. They’ve announced that all areas capable of receiving power should be back online by the end of today.
Community support, donations
In the meantime, a donation drive is being hosted by the South Region Driving School in La Porte. Residents can contribute prepackaged snacks, water, and hygiene items at 911 South Broadway Street from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Update on the fire’s origin
There is still no update on the individual who drove into the above-ground valve that initiated the fire. Authorities are working to determine their condition and the exact circumstances surrounding the incident.
NASA’s space image of massive pipeline fire
At one point, the fire was visible from space. NASA astronaut Don Pettit captured a dramatic image of the blaze from aboard the International Space Station, highlighting the fire's scale and intensity.