Flaring at Shell refinery prompts health alert from Contra Costa County health officials

MARTINEZ, CA. -- Contra Costa Health Services is advising people to avoid the area around the Shell Refinery in Martinez this afternoon due to "excessive flaring and black smoke."

The Health Services website issued the alert at 2:20 p.m. for the refinery at 3485 Pacheco Blvd.

People with respiratory conditions are being advised to take precautions and avoid the area.

The flaring is the result of a power outage, according to Health Services officials.