Photo Credit: The HF Sinclair Navajo Refinery in Artesia, pictured in May. Susan Montoya Bryan/Associated Press
ARTESIA – Three people were taken to a hospital Friday morning after a fire broke out at the HF Sinclair Navajo Refinery in Artesia. According to an article in the Albuquerque Journal, emergency crews responded to the incident around 11:10 a.m., and the fire has since been extinguished.
The company stated that all personnel have been accounted for, though the conditions of the three individuals transported for medical care have not been released. HF Sinclair reported that air monitoring is underway, emphasizing that the safety of employees, contractors, and the surrounding community remains the top priority.
Artesia Police initially reported the situation as an explosion. Shortly afterward, Eddy County emergency officials indicated that a medical helicopter was preparing to land near the refinery. Thick smoke drifted across parts of the city, prompting officials to advise residents to remain indoors with windows closed while environmental teams evaluated air quality.
The New Mexico Environment Department confirmed that state air monitoring crews are en route to assess any impact on nearby neighborhoods.
Authorities continue to urge the public to avoid the area around the refinery and any locations affected by smoke until further updates are provided.