Firefighters in Los Angeles continue to battle a massive, long-duration blaze at a cold-storage warehouse in Boyle Heights that has blanketed the city in noxious smoke since June 17. The Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) reports that the fire, which started at 1400 S. Los Palos St., is complicated by structural instability, a suspected ammonia leak, and 85 million pounds of frozen food stored inside the facility.
What caused the fire?
The company that operates the warehouse, Lineage, stated that the fire likely originated on the roof on Wednesday, June 17, while subcontractors were servicing a solar array. According to the company, Lineage does not own the building or the solar equipment, as it serves only as the tenant-operator and leases the roof to a third-party solar provider responsible for maintenance.
The LAFD has not yet released an official cause for the incident. Fire crews arrived at the scene around 2:35 p.m. Wednesday to find flames on the roof, but they were forced to shift to a defensive posture just 15 minutes into the operation due to a suspected ammonia leak.
Did You Know?
This is not the first time a Lineage facility has experienced a prolonged fire event. In 2024, a company facility in Washington state caught fire and continued to smolder for two months, according to Northwest Public Broadcasting.
Why is the fire difficult to extinguish?
Firefighting efforts have been hindered by the sheer scale of the structure and the presence of 85 million pounds of frozen goods, which Los Angeles Fire Chief Jaime Moore noted creates “zero visibility” inside the building. The LAFD reported that heavy water application has caused wall instability, and collapsed roof sections are currently resting on interior storage racks, creating an unstable environment for crews.
While the fire was largely contained within six hours of the initial call, wind conditions on Friday triggered a flare-up within the structure. To reach hidden pockets of fire, crews have begun removing sections of the exterior wall, a process the LAFD warns may lead to intermittent increases in visible smoke.
Health risks and community impact
Air quality monitors have recorded PM2.5 levels ranging from “unhealthy for sensitive groups” to “very unhealthy” across central Los Angeles County and surrounding areas, including the San Gabriel and East San Fernando valleys. The South Coast Air Quality Management District notes that PM2.5 particles are small enough to enter the bloodstream when inhaled.
The Los Angeles County health department advises residents to limit exposure and seek immediate medical attention if they experience chest pain or difficulty breathing. To assist those affected, Lineage has pledged $2 million to the California Community Foundation and is working with local officials to distribute air purifiers and other resources.
Expert Insight:
The combination of a long-duration smoldering fire and a massive volume of perishable inventory presents a unique challenge for incident commanders. Beyond the immediate structural risks to first responders, the environmental impact of burning large quantities of food products and the potential for chemical leaks—such as the suspected ammonia—often necessitate the “cautious and methodical” approach currently employed by the LAFD to prevent further escalation.
Frequently Asked Questions
When will the smoke stop?
The LAFD has not provided a specific timeline for when the smoke will dissipate, though officials noted that conditions have improved significantly. Residents may see temporary spikes in smoke as crews continue to open walls to extinguish hidden fire.
What areas are currently affected by poor air quality?
According to the South Coast Air Quality Management District, unhealthy air quality has been detected in central Los Angeles County, the San Gabriel Valley, the East San Fernando Valley, and the Northwest San Bernardino Valley.
Has an emergency been declared?
Yes, Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass declared an emergency on Saturday to secure resources under the California Assistance Act for fire suppression and community relief.
How are you and your household managing the current air quality conditions in your neighborhood?
