November 16, 2025 – Bacliff, Texas
Early Sunday morning, a significant fire broke out at the long-abandoned P.H. Robinson Power Plant in Bacliff, Texas. The blaze consumed five decommissioned cooling towers, sending massive plumes of smoke across the area and prompting emergency crews to respond quickly. Thankfully, no injuries were reported.
Picture Credit: NewsRadio KTRH
Incident Overview
The fire erupted early Sunday morning, around 2:30 a.m., at the decommissioned P.H. Robinson Power Plant in Bacliff, Texas. Flames quickly engulfed five water-cooling towers located on a small island beside the facility, causing the structures to collapse into the adjacent canal. Though the plant has been inactive since the 1990s, the towers had become structurally unstable over time, making the site particularly hazardous.
Emergency Response and Safety Measures
Firefighters from the Galveston County Fire Department and Brazoria County Fire Rescue battled the fire for hours, preventing it from spreading to nearby homes and businesses. Thick smoke prompted temporary shelter-in-place orders for San Leon and surrounding neighborhoods, which authorities lifted once the air cleared.
Fire Chief Brian O’Neill described the area as a “hazard zone” and confirmed that crews are continuing to monitor the collapsed structures to ensure no additional dangers remain. Meanwhile, property owner KV Land, LLC, is working with environmental experts to assess air quality and any potential contamination.
Community and Environmental Concerns
Even though the towers were decommissioned, the fire still created multiple concerns for the surrounding community.
- Air Quality Risks: Thick smoke from the burning towers posed potential health hazards, especially for residents with respiratory conditions. Authorities advised people to remain indoors until the air cleared.
- Impact on Future Developments: The fire occurred near a proposed desalination facility, raising concerns about zoning, emergency preparedness, and the safety of future construction projects.
- Cleanup Challenges: The collapse of all five towers makes debris removal and site cleanup more complicated. Proper handling is required to prevent environmental damage, protect waterways, and ensure safety for workers and nearby residents.
This incident underscores how decommissioned industrial sites, if not monitored or maintained, can affect public safety and community planning for years to come.
Coordinated Emergency Response
Multiple fire departments worked together to contain the fire and safeguard surrounding properties. Environmental monitoring teams conducted air quality testing, and initial results indicated no significant hazardous exposure. Residents were advised to limit outdoor activity until conditions stabilized.
This incident demonstrates the risks associated with aging industrial infrastructure and highlights the importance of proactive monitoring and rapid emergency response.
Ongoing Recovery and Legal Support
Investigators continue working to determine the cause of the fire while cleanup and environmental assessments remain ongoing. The incident has underscored the importance of monitoring and maintaining decommissioned industrial sites to prevent similar hazards in the future. At CE Law Office, we assist communities affected by industrial accidents and environmental hazards. Our attorneys handle claims involving property damage, environmental risks, and community safety. If you or your property were impacted by the Bacliff Power Plant fire, we can guide you through your legal options and help ensure accountability. Contact us for a consultation.
