Refinery Blast Kills 24 in Venezuela

Dozens more are injured
By Mark Russell,  Newser Staff
Posted Aug 25, 2012 5:00 AM CDT
Updated Aug 25, 2012 9:30 AM CDT
Refinery Blast Kills 7 in Venezuela
Fire rises over the Amuay refinery near Punto Fijo, Venezuela, Saturday.   (AP Photo/Daniela Primera)

A huge gas explosion rocked the largest refinery in Venezuela this morning, killing at least 24 and injuring more than 80, reports Reuters. The Amuay facility processes 645,000 barrels of oil per day, and is part of one of the largest refining complexes in the world. Authorities said the fire was under control, but it remains unclear how seriously output will be affected. "It was a significant explosion, there are appreciable damages to infrastructure and houses opposite the refinery," said Energy Minister Rafael Ramirez. (More Venezuela stories.)

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