Massive Fire Shuts 10 Freeway, LA; State of Emergency Declared
TL/DR –
A State of Emergency has been declared in Los Angeles County by Governor Gavin Newsom to aid cleanup and repairs after a fire shut down parts of the 10 Freeway. The fire, reported at 12:22 a.m. in the 1700 block of East 14th Street, spread across 8 acres and engulfed multiple trailers in a 40,000-square-foot storage yard, also destroying several civilian vehicles. Caltrans engineers are currently assessing damage to decide whether it is safe to reopen the freeway, which is expected to remain closed for at least 24 hours.
Los Angeles State of Emergency due to 10 Freeway Fire
Gov. Gavin Newsom declared a State of Emergency in Los Angeles County, facilitating cleanup and repairs after a pallet fire closed the 10 Freeway. The fire, reported at 12:22 a.m. on East 14th Street, consumed a space equivalent to six football fields.
Two 40,000-square-foot storage yards were engulfed in flames. Firefighters successfully defended three nearby commercial buildings from fire, with the Department of Water and Power assisting by boosting water pressure. A high-tension wire also fell on 14th Street, adding to the chaos.
The first storage yard, located under the 10 Freeway, led to a SigAlert at 1:19 a.m., closing the interstate in both directions. The closure resulted in significant traffic, with eastbound traffic diverted at Alameda Street and westbound at Santa Fe Avenue.
By 2:30 a.m., pallets in both yards were mostly consumed by the flames. Bulldozers were used to move debris and put out hot spots. The aftermath revealed twisted guardrails and damaged concrete at the freeway overpass. Caltrans engineers were assessing the damage and the safety of reopening the freeway.
The LAFD’s Fire Engine 17, the first on the scene, was destroyed by the flames after becoming stuck under the freeway overpass. The 10 Freeway is expected to remain closed at the scene for at least 24 hours.
Impact on Traffic and Local Businesses
Mayor Karen Bass stated that emergency crews will continue assessing the damages. She has directed city departments to plan for increased traffic. “We will urgently coordinate with our state partners to resolve this issue for the freeway users and those who live and work in the surrounding areas,” Bass said.
Bass has spoken with U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, who confirmed the White House’s readiness to assist. Angelenos and those planning to attend major sporting events in downtown L.A. are advised to seek alternate routes or anticipate delays.
—
Read More US News