Los Angeles declares state of emergency as warehouse fire continues to burn

Sunday 21 June 2026 - 07:50

Authorities in Los Angeles have declared a state of emergency as firefighters continue battling a massive warehouse fire that has been burning for several days, raising concerns about air quality and public health across the city.

The fire began on Wednesday afternoon in a large frozen-food storage warehouse covering more than 46,000 square meters. Emergency crews have faced significant challenges in containing the blaze due to the presence of insulating materials, the possibility of an ammonia leak, and damage caused by melting solar panels installed on the facility.

Although the fire has been largely confined to the warehouse, it continues to generate thick black smoke visible from several parts of the city. Residents have reported a strong odor resembling burned plastic, prompting health officials to advise caution.

In response to the ongoing situation, Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass declared a state of emergency to ensure that local authorities have access to the resources necessary to manage the incident effectively. The measure is intended to support emergency operations and help protect affected communities.

The Los Angeles Fire Department has urged residents to limit their exposure to smoke whenever possible. Health experts warn that prolonged exposure to airborne pollutants can cause respiratory irritation, particularly among children, older adults, and individuals with pre-existing health conditions.

Environmental specialists are also monitoring air quality levels as crews work to extinguish the remaining hotspots. Officials continue to assess potential risks associated with hazardous materials that may have been present inside the warehouse.

The incident highlights the challenges emergency services face when responding to large industrial fires in densely populated urban areas. Authorities have assured the public that firefighting operations will continue until the blaze is fully extinguished and any remaining risks have been eliminated.

As investigations into the cause of the fire continue, city officials are focusing on safeguarding public health and minimizing disruptions for residents affected by the smoke.