MARTINEZ — Fire crews rushed to a refinery in Martinez on Saturday after a massive fire broke out, officials said.
Crews from the Contra Costa County Fire Protection District rushed to the Martinez Refining Company on Shell Avenue and Marina Vista Avenue about 1:40 p.m., spokesperson Fire Prevention Capt. Ted Leach said. He added that it was unclear what they were facing, because crews initially struggled to make entry to the refinery.
Witnesses to the scene reported an explosion, but fire officials were not able to confirm one immediately.
Black smoke could be seen pouring from the facility around 2 p.m. Saturday, and flames shot up from a flaring tower on the property.
Public health officials issued an advisory on the county’s health services web site that an “incident” Saturday at the Martinez Refining Company could affect individuals with respiratory issues.
“Most people will not be affected,” the advisory read. “Eye, skin, nose or throat irritation may be possible for some people in the affected area. If people experience any irritation, advise them to go inside and rinse any irritated area of their body with water.”
Check back for updates on this developing story.