La Porte Pipeline Fire: Evacuations Ordered as Flames Engulf Spencer Highway

A major pipeline fire near Spencer Highway in La Porte, Texas, has prompted evacuations and road closures as firefighters work to extinguish the blaze.

The fire, which broke out shortly before 10 a.m. on September 16, 2024, sent plumes of smoke billowing into the air, visible for miles.

Emergency Response and Evacuations

The La Porte Office of Emergency Management issued evacuation orders for residents between Luella and Canada. The nearby Walmart and H-E-B are closed off to traffic. Authorities are urging residents to avoid the area.

San Jacinto College Central Campus has also been placed under a shelter-in-place order. Harris County Hazmat and other resources from the Harris County Fire Marshals Office are assisting in extinguishing the flames. Emergency responders remain on site.

Impact on Transportation

Spencer Highway is closed in both directions, creating significant traffic disruptions. Drivers are advised to use alternate routes and expect delays.

Cause of the Fire

The cause of the pipeline fire is currently under investigation. No injuries have been reported, as of this writing.

Aerial Views Reveal Magnitude of the Fire

Sky 2 aerial footage captured the sheer magnitude of the fire, showing flames engulfing the pipeline and sending smoke high into the sky.

Ongoing Updates

This is a developing story. We will continue to update this article as more information becomes available.

A Reminder of the Importance of Pipeline Safety

This incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers associated with pipelines and the importance of maintaining strict safety protocols. The fire underscores the need for rigorous inspections and maintenance to prevent such incidents from occurring in the future.

The La Porte Fire Department, along with other emergency responders, are working tirelessly to contain the fire and ensure the safety of residents and the surrounding environment.

A Collaborative Effort

Local news outlets, including KPRC 2 and Click2Houston, have been reporting on the incident, providing updates and aerial footage. This collaborative effort ensures that the public is informed and kept up-to-date on the evolving situation.

The La Porte community is rallying together in the face of this emergency. Residents are sharing information and resources, offering support to those affected by the evacuations.

We will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as they become available.

Further Resources

For the latest information, please visit the websites of the La Porte Office of Emergency Management, the Harris County Fire Marshals Office, and local news outlets.

If you have any concerns or questions, please contact your local authorities.

Stay safe and stay informed.