An explosion and subsequent fire have forced a complete shutdown of Venezuela’s Cardon oil refinery, the country’s second-largest. The blast originated in a natural gas pipeline connected to the facility’s diesel-hydrogen refining unit in Punto Fijo. Emergency crews were immediately dispatched, quickly bringing the blaze under control without any reported injuries or serious damage. The state oil company confirmed that all operations at the plant, which boasts a daily capacity of 310,000 barrels, are currently suspended.