Massive refinery fire in Martinez forces residents indoors – here’s what we know

A major fire broke out at Martinez Refining Company on Saturday afternoon, sending plumes of thick black smoke into the sky and prompting an immediate public health advisory for nearby communities. The fire, which ignited around 1:47 p.m., led emergency officials to urge residents in Martinez, Pacheco, and Clyde to remain indoors due to potential air quality hazards.

By late afternoon, a Unified Command was established to coordinate firefighting efforts. The command included Martinez Refining Company, Contra Costa Fire Protection District, and the City of Martinez, with additional support from mutual aid agencies. Officials confirmed that the Contra Costa emergency response successfully contained the fire within the refinery and was working to mitigate further risks.

The Martinez refinery fire is the latest in a series of industrial incidents raising concerns about air pollution, emergency preparedness, and regulatory oversight in Contra Costa County.

How many people were affected by the refinery fire?

Emergency responders reported that three individuals were transported off-site due to exposure-related concerns. Additionally, one person was treated and released following the incident. Local officials did not disclose the specific nature of their medical conditions but assured the public that all necessary precautions were being taken to protect workers and residents.

Residents in surrounding areas reported strong chemical odors, visible smoke, and respiratory discomfort, prompting questions about long-term air quality impacts. Health officials cautioned that exposure to refinery emissions could cause eye irritation, throat discomfort, and aggravated respiratory issues, particularly among individuals with asthma or preexisting conditions.

What public health measures were taken in response to the fire?

As smoke from the Martinez refinery fire spread through the area, Contra Costa Health Services issued a CWS Level 3 Alert, instructing residents north of the refinery to shelter in place. The public health advisory urged affected individuals to:

• Remain indoors and avoid unnecessary exposure to outside air.
• Keep windows and doors closed to prevent smoke infiltration.
• Turn off heaters, air conditioners, and ventilation systems to minimize airborne contamination.
• Seal gaps with tape or damp towels to block incoming pollutants.

The Bay Area Air Quality Management District deployed monitoring teams to assess airborne pollutant levels. However, initial reports did not specify the exact concentration of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) or particulate matter released during the fire.

Which areas were affected, and what road closures were implemented?

To support emergency response operations, authorities enacted multiple road closures near the refinery. As of the latest update, the following roads remained inaccessible:

• Marina Vista Avenue between Interstate 680 and Court Street
• Shell Avenue from Marina Vista to Pacheco

These closures were expected to remain in place until officials deemed the area safe for public access. Law enforcement urged drivers to seek alternate routes to avoid congestion and allow first responders uninterrupted access to the site.

What is the environmental impact of the Martinez refinery fire?

The Martinez refinery fire reignited longstanding concerns about industrial emissions and air pollution in Contra Costa County. Flaring, a process used to burn off excess gases during operational disruptions, was observed at the facility during the incident.

Past refinery incidents have resulted in the release of harmful pollutants, including sulfur dioxide, benzene, and particulate matter, all of which can pose serious health risks when inhaled. The Martinez Refining Company has faced scrutiny for previous air quality violations, including a November 2022 environmental incident where the refinery released toxic dust into the community, triggering federal investigations and increased regulatory oversight.

Local environmental advocates expressed frustration over recurring safety failures at the refinery, urging stricter enforcement of air pollution regulations. A Martinez resident described the fire as “alarming”, citing concerns over long-term exposure to refinery emissions and calling for stronger safety measures.

How will authorities investigate the cause of the refinery fire?

An investigation is underway to determine the root cause of the fire and assess whether refinery safety protocols were properly followed. Preliminary reports suggest that flaring was used during the incident, but it remains unclear if equipment failure, human error, or mechanical malfunction played a role in igniting the blaze.

As the Martinez refinery fire response continues, officials are focused on air quality monitoring, environmental impact assessments, and refinery safety compliance. Community members and environmental watchdogs have called for greater transparency in the refinery’s operations and a thorough review of its safety procedures.

What happens next for Martinez residents and refinery workers?

Officials have pledged to keep the public informed as the investigation progresses. Health authorities are monitoring potential long-term effects of the fire, and environmental regulators will determine whether the refinery is in compliance with state and federal air quality standards.

Residents affected by the fire are encouraged to report health symptoms or smoke exposure concerns to Contra Costa Health Services. While emergency teams have contained the immediate threat, air pollution monitoring and refinery safety evaluations are expected to continue in the coming weeks.

As Contra Costa County grapples with yet another industrial emergency, residents are left questioning whether stronger regulations will be enforced to prevent future refinery fires and safeguard public health.