Ruptured TX Pipeline Explodes, Shakes Houses

John Wayne Ferguson

Houston Chronicle

(TNS)

Jul. 13—An explosion in Brazoria County Thursday afternoon shook houses on Galveston Island and was followed by a roaring fire near West Galveston Bay.

The explosion occurred around 1:35 p.m., according to the city of Jamaica Beach.

The fire appeared to be in an industrial facility near Chocolate Bayou, an unincorporated community in eastern Brazoria County. The fire had been near the intersection of FM 2004 and FM 2917, according to Houston TV station KTRK.

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Although the facility is owned by INEOS, the explosion did not occur at the INEOS Chocolate Bayou Works facility.

In a statement, INEOS said the fire was caused by a "release" at a valve site for two pipelines transporting propylene and ethylene. The pipelines were isolated by 3:40 p.m., according to the company. After being isolated, a fire will burn itself out after using the remaining fuel in the pipeline.

First responders were at the scene, and officials were monitoring air quality downwind of the fire, the company said.

The cause of the explosion had not yet been determined, the company said.

There were no reported injuries at the site, according to the company.

This is a developing story. Check back later for more information.

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