Crisis at New Mexico Refinery: Explosion Sends Smoke Over Artesia

An explosion erupted at the HF Sinclair Navajo Refinery in Artesia, New Mexico, on Friday, releasing thick plumes of smoke into the air. Emergency response teams quickly attended to the scene as the smoke drifted over parts of the city. Fortunately, flames were eventually extinguished.

According to Artesia Police Commander Pete Quiñones, while no fatalities occurred, injuries were reported. Eddy County Emergency Manager Jennifer Armendariz couldn’t confirm the exact number of injuries. In the incident's aftermath, the Eddy County Emergency Management Office advised the public to avoid areas near the refinery to facilitate a medical helicopter landing. Good news arrived by Friday afternoon when the smoke cleared and roads were reopened.

This refinery is strategically located at Artesia's main intersection, which links the Permian Basin to other parts of New Mexico. With a crude oil capacity of 100,000 barrels per day, the facility plays a vital role in the region's oil market, though the status of its capacity during the explosion remains unknown.