BEAUMONT, Texas — Southeast Texans who live in Beaumont or are traveling near the ExxonMobil refinery may see flares coming from the plant on Wednesday, according to a news release from the company.
Exxon officials released a statement Wednesday saying the refinery was conducting a “maintenance activity that required flaring." The release explained that flares are safety devices intended to safely burn off excess hydrocarbons.
Hydrocarbons are organic compounds that consist of only hydrogen and carbon atoms, according to Gulf Coast Environmental Systems.
While the maintenance activity takes place, those living or traveling near the refinery may see visible flame or smoke, according to the release.
Exxon officials apologized for any inconvenience this may cause area residents. Officials said the safety of the public and refinery employees is their main focus.
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This is a developing story. We will update with more if and when we receive more confirmed information.
From a full ExxonMobil release:
On Wednesday, March 23, the ExxonMobil Refinery is conducting a maintenance activity that requires flaring. Flares are safety devices that are intended to safely burn off excess hydrocarbons.
During this time, those living or traveling near our facility may see visible flame or smoke.
We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause our neighbors. Our main focus remains the safety of the public and our workforce.
