Philadelphia fire: Explosions ‘felt for miles’ after massive blaze breaks out at oil refinery

No injuries are reported after enormous fire erupts at major oil refinery

A massive fire broke out at the Philadelphia Energy Solutions Refining Complex early on Friday, leading to a series of explosions that were reportedly felt for miles.

Officials said there were no reports of injuries at about 7am local time, and that the fire — which broke out before 4am — had been contained by firefighters.

Residents heard and felt explosions and flames shot into the sky, turning night into day.

The cause of the fire is still unclear. Craig Murphy, the city’s deputy fire commissioner, said the explosion stemmed from a vat of butane.

It’s the second fire at the refinery in one month, following a 10 June blaze in which no injuries were reported.

Videos showed flames and enormous plumes of smoke shooting into the night sky as the fire roared throughout the facility.

By 7am, officials lifted orders to shelter in place, Mr Murphy said.

According to its website, the complex produces 335,000 barrels of crude oil daily.

Philadelphia Energy Solutions says the oil refining complex is the largest on the US Eastern Seaboard.

The company has not responded to requests for comment.

The Associated Press contributed to this report