Refinery fire continues to burn

UPDATE

A watch and act for the greater Geelong area has been dongraded to advice level.

Locals are now able to go about their business as usual.

EARLIER

Emergency services are tackling a massive fire at the Viva Energy refinery in Corio.

An explosion was reported just before midnight with fire crews racing to the scene.

Smoke is blowing across the greater Geelong area with residents in twelve suburbs told to shelter in doors

A watch and act has been issued with residents told to close doors and windows and keep the airconditioning off.

Emergency services have blocked roads around the scene, but witnesses say the Princes Highway remains open.