Chevron LPG pipeline explodes in Texas

US energy firm Chevron has reported an explosion at its liquid petroleum gas (LPG) pipeline near Milford, Texas, prompting evacuations.

Hill County Emergency Management director Tom Hemrick told KTVT-TV in Dallas that the explosion was caused by a construction crew that accidentally drilled into a 10in LPG line.

"The fire is definitely getting smaller," Hemrick added.

Chevron has established a 1.5-mile evacuation zone around the site of the fire and asked 700 residents of Milford to evacuate their homes.

The company continues to monitor the nearby 14-inch LPG pipeline and is in the process of mobilising resources to remove product and depressurise the line.

According to a state regulator, Chevron operates an interstate pipeline that falls under the jurisdiction of the Pipeline and Hazardous Safety Administration.

EPA Dallas regional office spokesman Joe Hubbard said: "EPA emergency response personnel are assisting with the response efforts to determine environmental effects of the explosion and provide additional support as requested."

The pipeline system is 80% owned by Chevron and 20% by Atlas Pipeline Partners.

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Image: Chevron headquarters in San Ramon, California. Photo: courtesy of Coolcaesar.