Firefighters Battle Large Fire at Boyle Heights Cold Storage Facility

Firefighters faced renewed challenges at a large cold storage facility fire in Boyle Heights. Mayor Karen Bass declared a local emergency to aid response efforts. The fire first broke out Wednesday at the Lineage Big Bear facility. This 500,000-square-foot facility is used for frozen food storage.

Los Angeles Fire Chief Jamie Moore described the structure as resembling a giant cooler. Corrugated steel walls filled with dense foam insulation and reinforced interior steel panels characterize the building. Ammonia is used in its refrigeration system, which may have contributed to the fire.

Moore explained the nature of the fire: “Imagine your refrigerator having a fire.” He noted the structure’s insulation keeps internal temperatures around 45 degrees. Helicopter water drops have helped control the fire, though food in the unaffected half is beginning to thaw.

The building’s foam insulation burns slowly once ignited. Crews have used helicopter water drops and large aerial ladder pipes to contain the blaze. Contract helicopters can drop 3,000 gallons of water at once. Additionally, blaze tamer gel is used to encapsulate smoke and smother the fire.

On Sunday, there was another flare-up. Smoke extended into the air as the fire burned the exterior wall and onto a lower roof. Firefighters identified 85 million pounds of frozen food inside the facility, complicating access due to zero visibility and unstable interior conditions.

Moore disclosed the food inside includes chicken, beef, pork, and fish. Crews aim to isolate unaffected areas and plan safe removal before spoilage creates biohazard issues. Though hazardous material risks are mitigated, biohazard concerns are growing.

No injuries have been reported, and no evacuation or shelter-in-place orders are in effect. Residents were advised to stay indoors if sensitive to smoke. Mayor Bass emphasized concerns about biohazard smoke and safety, but there was no immediate risk prompting evacuations.

Bass opened two shelters for those affected. Locations include the Pecan Recreation Center and City Terrace Park. She announced plans to distribute masks and air filters and coordinated with Governor Newsom to respond to the emergency.

“This is about prevention. This is about protecting our public’s health,” Bass stated.

Bass issued an emergency declaration to enhance city response flexibility. This allows coordination for more resources, environmental remediation, and state and federal assistance.

The Emergency Operations Center was activated. Newsom’s office was asked to waive regulations hindering response and recovery, offering recovery assistance.

LA County Supervisor Hilda Solis highlighted the impact radius, noting concern for residents in nearby households.

Residents raised concerns about long-term environmental and health impacts. South Coast Air Quality Management District extended a particle pollution advisory. Lineage, the facility operator, believes the fire originated from solar panel work by a third-party contractor.

Lineage has addressed ammonia concerns, stating there have been no measurable concentrations in the community since the fire started.

Fire crews are monitoring and adjusting tactics. Authorities warned extinguishing the fire could take days or weeks.

Los Angeles County Fire Chief Jon O’Brien acknowledged the continuing operations and the meticulous effort required to control the fire.

Residents are encouraged to report unusual odors, smoke, or air quality issues to the South Coast Air Quality Management District.