Summary
A major fire broke out at the Viva oil refinery in Geelong, Australia, which produces a large share of the nation's petrol. The fire has caused production cuts, raising concerns over fuel supply and prices in Australia during a global oil shortage.
Key Facts
- The fire started just before midnight at the Viva refinery in Geelong, southwest of Melbourne.
- The Viva refinery produces about 120,000 barrels of oil daily and supplies 50% of Victoria's fuel and 10% of Australia's fuel.
- No one was injured, but the fire is still burning and affecting air quality in the area.
- The refinery remains partly operational, with reduced jet fuel and diesel production for safety reasons.
- The Australian government warns petrol production will be impacted, adding to supply pressures caused by global oil issues.
- Diesel prices in Australia have recently doubled, with shortages and panic buying reported at fuel stations.
- An investigation suggests the fire was likely an accident.
- About 50 to 100 workers were safely evacuated when the fire started.
