A substantial explosion at a local gas refinery was spotted in South Philadelphia shortly after 4:00 am local time. It is currently not known what caused the explosion.
According to Fox News, the exact location of the explosion was 31st Street and Passyunk Avenue - nearby the city’s sports complex.
Officials in Philadelphia have confirmed that the fire started at the 150-year-old Philadelphia Energy Solutions Refining Complex, but were unable to give any additional details.
The complex employs around 1,000 people. It is still referred to by many as the Sunoco refinery, although it is now owned by Philadelphia Energy Solutions, a partnership which includes Sunoco.
Homes in areas as far away as South Jersey were rocked by the massive explosion. According to residents in Philadelphia, the force of the explosion was so substantial that it knocked art off their walls.
Per the Washington Post, the complex produced 335,000 barrels of crude oil daily, and the refinery claims to be the largest on the US Eastern Seaboard.
According to a report from KYW-TV, the refinery has its own fire brigade.
Roads in the surrounding area, which include sections of Interstate 76 and Pennrose Avenue, have been closed so that first responders have space to work and protect drivers.
As of yet, there have been no reports on potential fatalities or injuries sustained as a result of the explosion.
More on this story as it continues...
