TEXAS CITY, Texas — A section of Loop 197 was shut down Saturday evening as a precaution after elevated sulfur dioxide (SO₂) levels were detected near the Valero refinery facility.
Where Is the Closure?
The road closure affects Loop 197 between FM 519 and 605 South Loop. Officials have not yet provided an estimated time for reopening.
What Happened at Valero?
According to Texas City Emergency Management (TCEM), the Valero facility is currently “experiencing an upset”, a term used in the industry to describe a temporary malfunction or irregularity in refinery operations. As a result, there were higher-than-normal sulfur dioxide emissions recorded in the area.
Is It Dangerous?
So far, no immediate health threats have been identified. TCEM stated that as of 7 p.m. Saturday, air monitoring showed nothing harmful had been detected. Just before 9 p.m., Valero informed officials that conditions were improving.
Public Safety Measures
No sirens were activated.
No citywide alerts were issued.
The road closure is purely precautionary.
TCEM is continuing to monitor air quality and communicate with Valero as the situation develops.
What Should Residents Do?
For now, no action is required from residents. However, it’s advised to:
Avoid the area around Loop 197 until it’s reopened.
Follow official updates from Texas City Emergency Management via social media or local news.
Stay indoors if you are sensitive to air quality changes, especially those with respiratory conditions.
While the situation at the Valero facility appears to be stabilizing, officials are taking no chances when it comes to public safety. The road closure is a reminder of the importance of rapid response to potential environmental hazards, even when immediate danger isn’t present.
