Explosion Rocks New Mexico's Largest Oil Refinery

An explosion erupted at HF Sinclair Navajo Refinery in Artesia, New Mexico, leading to thick smoke that drifted across parts of the city. Emergency crews quickly responded and managed to extinguish the flames, averting further disaster.

Artesia Police Commander Pete Quinones confirmed that although there were no fatalities, injuries were reported from the incident. Eddy County Emergency Manager Jennifer Armendariz stated that the number of injured could not be confirmed at the moment. The Eddy County Office of Emergency Management advised locals to steer clear of the intersection near the refinery as it was prepared for a medical helicopter landing zone.

By Friday afternoon, the smoke had dissipated, and authorities reopened roads in the area. Efforts to contact a manager from HF Sinclair Navajo Refinery for comments remained unfulfilled. The New Mexico Environment Department dispatched a team to assess conditions and monitor air quality in Artesia.