Storage Tank Fire at Refinery, Lake Charles, LA

4359 W Tank Farm Rd, Lake Charles, LA | 2023-Jun-03

Initial Notification: On June 3, 2023, a storage tank at Calcsieu Refinery, Lake Charles, containing a reported 1 million gallons of naptha was ignited, reportedly by a lightening strike. MSU Lake Charles contacted NOAA SSC for input on minimizing likelihood of product or fire-fighting water reaching waterway. Fire is in EPA zone, MSU Lake Charles is responding as first Federal on-scene. Evacuations are in place up to 1.5 miles downwind of the refinery, shelter-in-place orders were initially in effect up to 5 miles downwind of the refinery. Product and fire-fighting are remain within secondary containment at this time. Fire is being contained with water, and allowed to burn out. Phone support provided, no products requested at this time.