A fire has been burning for six days at a cold storage facility in Boyle Heights, presenting significant challenges for firefighters due to the building’s unique design and the vast amount of frozen food it contains—approximately 85 million pounds. The structure resembles “giant Yeti coolers” and has thick insulation, complicating efforts to extinguish the blaze.
Firefighters have employed a creative strategy, using water-dropping helicopters and surveillance drones to tackle the fire in hard-to-reach areas. The collapse of much of the roof has made access dangerous, while solar panels further restrict firefighting efforts from above. Fire crews have been dismantling the structure using cranes and bulldozers, spraying thousands of gallons of water in the process.
Los Angeles Fire Chief Jamie Moore anticipates that the fire could be extinguished by midweek, although some residents have expressed frustration over health risks and the lengthy process. The facility, operated by Lineage Logistics, was the site of a prior incident involving a fire linked to solar panels.
Amid concerns regarding air quality and environmental justice, Boyle Heights residents have voiced their need for clear communication about ongoing risks. Several local schools are temporarily relocating due to smoke from the fire, which has led to “unhealthy” air quality readings in parts of Los Angeles County. Councilwoman Isabel Jurado is pushing for transparency regarding air quality and environmental tests related to the fire’s impact.
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