L.A. Officials Prepare for State of Emergency Amid Warehouse Fire in Boyle Heights

City officials in Los Angeles announced plans to declare a state of emergency due to a persistent warehouse fire in Boyle Heights. This fire has been spreading smoke across the region, causing significant air quality concerns.

According to Fire Chief Jamie Moore, the fire began on Wednesday in a 500,000-square-foot warehouse at 1400 S. Los Palos St. The building stores 85 million pounds of frozen food and poses a unique challenge. Dense foam within the building’s steel walls is slowly burning despite helicopter water drops. Moore warned individuals with lung conditions to limit outdoor exposure.

The hazardous-materials threat has decreased; however, firefighters now focus on biological hazards from spoiled food. Although a shelter-in-place order was lifted on Friday, smoke continues to affect areas like San Gabriel Valley, Northeast Los Angeles, and more. Residents reported heavy smoke and poor air quality, with some comparing it to the Eaton fire in Altadena in January 2025.

To assist affected individuals, the Red Cross has opened shelters at City Terrace Park and Pecan Recreation Center. Mayor Karen Bass confirmed an emergency declaration is forthcoming and has requested assistance from Gov. Gavin Newsom. Her primary concern is public health, especially potential toxic smoke from chemicals used for freezing food.

L.A. County health officer Muntu Davis emphasized the dangers of smoke and fine particles, which may worsen heart and lung conditions. Davis advised people to monitor their health, particularly those with preexisting conditions,

The warehouse, owned by Lineage Logistics, might have caught fire during solar array testing on the roof. The company expressed its commitment to community safety and is collaborating with authorities to assist in firefighting efforts. They affirmed that no hazardous materials are stored in the facility.

Challenging conditions include solar panels on the roof and the fire’s extensive reach. The fire expanded quickly, breaking an ammonia line and causing explosions. Crews evacuated to avoid fumes, leading to multiple shelter-in-place orders.

The South Coast Air Quality Management District issued a particle pollution advisory, critical until midday Saturday. Due to the building’s enormity, firefighters employ creative strategies, utilizing helicopters and heavy machinery.

Battalion Chief Nicholas Ferrari explained that complexity arises from the building’s freezer construction. Crews have removed ammonia, bringing them closer to entering and tackling the blaze effectively.