Residents Describe Harrowing Fire Experience; City to Evaluate Communications
Oct 03, 2025 10:52PM ● By Jeanne Fratello
(Photo credit: Jen Donahoe)
A massive explosion and fire at the Chevron refinery on Thursday night created a "terrifying" experience for many residents - and elicited a promise from the city to work with Chevron to evaluate communications.
During the peak of the fire, official communications were sporadic and seemingly incongruous to the dramatic scene unfolding in the northernmost end of Manhattan Beach. Multiple residents reached out to Manhattan Beach News after the fire to share stories of fleeing and/or bracing for what they thought would be another explosion.
“While the incident occurred outside of Manhattan Beach, we are fully aware that many in our community witnessed the flames, smelled the smoke, and experienced real concern for their safety and well-being—particularly those residents who reside close to the refinery,” said Mayor David Lesser in a statement released on Friday afternoon. “First and foremost, I want to assure our residents the fire is out according to the most recent updates from Chevron’s emergency response team and there have been no reported injuries. I am grateful to the first responders who acted quickly and professionally to contain the fire and protect surrounding communities.”
Residents Share Dramatic Stories
The fire began with an enormous explosion at about 9:30 p.m. on Thursday night, rattling windows and shaking homes.
"It sounded like a bomb went off and our whole house rattled," one resident on Laurel Ave. who lives a block from the Rosecrans border of the refinery told MB News. "When we
opened our front door, it was so hot out, like 120° from the fire. People were running down the street in their pajamas with their dogs,
and it was absolute chaos. Cars were lining up and trying to get away
from the fire."
Another resident confirmed that she had left her house with her dog and with no shoes on.
A third resident said that after the first explosion, the family was terrified because they feared that "it was going to explode again, and much bigger."
City officials appear to be aware of the rumblings among residents and the communications issues that emerged during Thursday night's event. The city's Friday afternoon statement included a pledge to begin an "evaluation of necessary improvements to outgoing communication to residents."
Is the Air Safe?
On its Air Quality Index map, the South Coast AQMD notes that "Windblown
ash particles may be too large to be detected by air quality
instrumentation and not reflected in the AQI map.
However, they are typically visible to the naked eye either in the air
or on outdoor surfaces. Although the AQI may show green, hazardous ash
may be present in the air. If you smell smoke or see ash, please take
precautions."
Both MB 10K and Manhattan Beach Hometown Fair officials announced that the race would move forward as planned on Saturday morning, but several residents expressed concern about air quality.
One resident told MB News that she had planned to run the 10K, but was alarmed by "greasy ash flakes" that she found on her patio and plants on Friday morning.
Those who have air quality concerns should report them by calling SCAQMD at 1-800-CUT-SMOG or 1-800-288-7664 or visit AQMD Air Quality Data.
Fire Follow-Up at Chevron
Chevron has announced that it has launched an "internal investigation" to determine the cause of the fire. The city of Manhattan Beach has said it will request a full briefing from Chevron regarding the cause of the fire, the effectiveness of their emergency response protocols, and what steps will be taken to prevent future incidents. This includes an evaluation of necessary improvements to outgoing communication to residents.
"While Manhattan Beach does not have jurisdiction over the Chevron facility, we take the concerns of our residents seriously, and we are committed to advocating for transparency, safety, and environmental responsibility on behalf of our community," read a statement from the city.
To report any debris related to the fire, contact the Chevron Refinery hotline at (310) 615-5342.
To receive emergency AlertSB messages:
1. Go to Alertsouthbay.com and make a profile.
2. Text ALERTSB to 888777 to receive the link to register.
3. Download the Everbridge App from the App Store
2. Text ALERTSB to 888777 to receive the link to register.
3. Download the Everbridge App from the App Store
