Galveston Co., TX – Massive Fire Reported at Old Power Plant on Hwy 146

‍Galveston County, TX (November 17, 2025) – A large industrial fire broke out on Sunday, November 16, at a decommissioned power plant near San Leon, sending a thick plume of black smoke across Galveston County. The Kemah Fire Department began receiving reports around 2:44 a.m. after callers saw heavy flames rising from the old facility along Highway 146.

Fire crews from multiple departments responded and found the structure fully engulfed. Officials said two cooling towers and nearby power lines were on fire when firefighters arrived. The blaze spread quickly through the aging building, which has been out of service since the 1990s.

The smoke drifted over several nearby cities, including San Leon. Authorities urged residents to avoid the area and stay indoors to reduce exposure. Additionally, The Kemah Police Department issued a warning on social media telling residents not to breathe the heavy smoke and to keep clear of the scene.

By Sunday afternoon, the Kemah Fire Department confirmed that firefighters had contained the blaze, though hot spots remained. Texas City crews also worked to put out several smaller fires that sparked near the main building. Air-quality monitors showed safe readings, but officials continued to advise caution.

At this time, authorities have not confirmed whether anyone was injured. Emergency crews stayed on scene throughout the day to monitor hot spots and prevent flare-ups.

Our thoughts are with everyone affected by this industrial fire. 

Industrial Site Fires and Seeking Legal Help

Large industrial fires, even at abandoned or decommissioned structures, pose serious risks to nearby communities. When these buildings catch fire, they often burn fast due to old electrical systems, weakened structural supports, and leftover industrial materials.

Smoke exposure is one of the biggest dangers for nearby residents. Even when air-quality readings appear safe, smoke can still contain small particles that irritate the eyes, throat, and lungs. People with asthma, children, and older adults are at higher risk. That is why local police and fire departments frequently urge residents to stay inside, close windows, and avoid the affected area.

Industrial fires can also lead to significant property damage. Heat, falling debris, and drifting embers may impact nearby homes or businesses, especially in windy conditions. Even if a structure does not catch fire, smoke damage can lead to expensive cleanup and repairs. Insurance claims for smoke exposure, damaged HVAC systems, or contaminated personal property are common after major fires.

At Dunk Law Firm, our experienced burn injury lawyer can help individuals understand their rights after an industrial fire. Our lawyers can work with investigators to determine the cause of the fire, identify responsible parties, and review whether safety standards were followed. We can also help file insurance claims, appeal denials, or pursue compensation for property loss, cleanup costs, and any related health concerns.

If you or someone you care about was affected by an industrial fire in Galveston or nearby areas, consider speaking with a skilled attorney. Contact Dunk Law Firm at (414) 209-4398 today to learn how we can help protect your rights and guide you through the claims process. Your fight is our fight.

Note: This post is based on information obtained from publicly available secondary sources. We have not independently verified all details of the incident. If you notice any inaccuracies or missing information, please contact Dunk Law Firm so we can promptly review and correct the content for accuracy and reliability.

Disclaimer: The content of this post is for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal or medical advice. It does not create an attorney-client relationship nor constitute a solicitation for legal services. If you have been injured in an accident, please seek immediate medical attention and consult a qualified attorney. Any images included are for illustrative purposes only and do not represent the actual scene or parties involved in the incident.