Massive Fire Breaks Out at Chevron Refinery in El Segundo

On the evening of October 2, 2025, a powerful explosion shook the Chevron refinery in El Segundo, California, triggering a massive fire that lit up the sky across Los Angeles County. Witnesses described the blast as feeling like an earthquake, with flames reaching hundreds of feet into the air and visible for miles around the South Bay.

Emergency crews from the refinery’s own fire department, alongside units from El Segundo and Los Angeles County, responded quickly to contain the blaze. Authorities confirmed that the fire erupted in the refinery’s jet fuel production unit, a critical facility that helps supply 40% of the jet fuel consumed in Southern California and a significant portion of the gasoline used across the region. Despite the intensity of the blast and fire, no injuries were reported, and all workers were accounted for.

Officials assured residents there was no need for evacuation orders, though nearby communities were advised to remain indoors and limit exposure to smoke. Air quality monitoring initially showed no dangerous levels of toxins, but experts noted conditions could change as the smoke settled. 

About the El Segundo Refinery

The El Segundo refinery, built in 1911, is one of the largest refineries on the West Coast and Chevron's second-largest U.S. refinery. Its close proximity to Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) raised immediate concerns about potential impacts to jet fuel supply, though airport operations were not disrupted. Investigators are still working to determine the cause of the explosion.

A History of Refinery Fires in the Region

Refinery incidents are not new to the region. In recent years, fires at facilities in El Segundo and nearby Carson have shown the risks these massive operations pose not only to their workers but to entire communities. Each incident is a reminder that when safety measures fail or oversight lapses, the consequences can be far-reaching.

At Arnold & Itkin, we know disasters like this don’t happen by chance. Operators of refineries and industrial facilities have a responsibility to maintain comprehensive safety practices—not just for the people working inside the gates, but also for the neighborhoods and families living nearby. The people of El Segundo were fortunate no lives were lost this time, but safety can never be left to luck.

We'll be following the details of this incident as they emerge.