Texas chemical plant explosion injures 3 workers, prompts mandatory evacuation

Update 3:01 p.m., EST Nov 27: Firefighters are still working to keep the blaze contained and the storage tanks on the property cool. Then they will focus on putting out the fire and beginning an investigation, CNN reported.

The fire is burning butadiene, a colorless gas that poses a health hazard. It is made from petroleum an used to make rubber and plastic, CNN reported.

Original report: In a news release early Wednesday, TPC Group said the explosion occurred about 1 a.m. local time Wednesday at its facility in Port Neches. Three employees were hurt, and all personnel "have been evacuated" and "accounted for," according to the company.

"The event is ongoing, but will be brought under control as quickly and safely as possible," the news release added.

KFDM-TV reported that people living "miles away" could feel the explosion, which shattered windows and damaged nearby buildings, including a school and homes.

The blast prompted officials to announce a "mandatory evacuation" of homes near the plant, The New York Times reported.

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