THAILAND – Fire Erupts at Chonburi Refinery After Lightning Strike

A lightning strike caused a fire at a crude oil storage tank in Chonburi on Monday evening (May 4), prompting an emergency response from refinery crews and local disaster officials. Authorities confirmed that no injuries or fatalities were reported.

The incident occurred at around 5pm during intense rainfall and thunderstorms. Witnesses near the refinery said they heard a loud cracking sound moments before flames and thick black smoke began rising from the roof of a large crude oil tank.

Emergency response teams from the refinery, along with local disaster prevention personnel, quickly moved in to contain the blaze. Firefighters used foam to stop the flames from spreading to nearby storage tanks, and officials later announced that the fire had been brought fully under control.

Although the blaze has been extinguished, crews continued spraying cooling water onto the affected tank to prevent possible reignition while damage assessments are underway.

The refinery operator is also coordinating with several agencies, including the Pollution Control Department, to monitor air quality in surrounding communities. Authorities said they are continuing to check for any lingering smoke or odours that could affect nearby residents.

Investigators, including police and engineering experts, are expected to inspect the refinery’s lightning protection system and examine the damaged tank structure. The investigation will focus on why the protective system may not have operated effectively during the storm.

Photo credit: Fire and Rescue Thailand. All rights reserved.