A massive explosion and subsequent fire engulfed the Chevron refinery in El Segundo late Thursday, leaving residents in shock and prompting emergency responses. Witnesses described the blast as resembling an earthquake or nuclear detonation, with one individual stating, “I thought we got nuked or something.”

The incident occurred at the Isomax 7 unit, which processes mid-distillate fuel oil into jet fuel for Los Angeles International Airport, according to Reuters sources. Fire crews arrived promptly, battling towering flames that illuminated the night sky. Kevin Mohr, a Manhattan Beach resident, recounted seeing “300-foot flames” and questioning whether a plane had crashed or an earthquake had struck.

El Segundo Police confirmed multiple reports of the explosion, with local officials emphasizing the urgency of the situation. El Segundo Mayor Chris Pimentel noted that firefighting teams were stationed just 0.25 miles from the refinery gates. California Gov. Gavin Newsom’s office stated it was monitoring the event and coordinating with authorities to safeguard the community.

LA County Supervisor Holly Mitchell reported that the fire was contained to a single area of the facility, though residents were advised to remain indoors due to potential air quality concerns. The South Coast Air Quality Management District indicated no immediate spikes in toxins but cautioned that conditions could shift as smoke settled.

Authorities have yet to determine the cause of the explosion or its impact on jet fuel production. Residents and visitors were urged to avoid the El Segundo area temporarily.