California declares state of emergency over massive fire in Los Angeles

A massive fire has broken out at a frozen food storage facility in Los Angeles, California, US. Governor Gavin Newsom has declared a state of emergency in the state.

Firefighters are still working to bring the fire under control. Meanwhile, smoke has worsened air quality in various areas of the region and health concerns have also arisen over the possibility of large quantities of stored food being spoiled.

Anadolu Agency says that the fire has been burning for several days at the frozen food storage facility in Boyle Heights, Los Angeles, according to reports published in various media outlets on Saturday (June 20), local time.
NBC News reports that firefighters are still working to bring the fire, which started last Wednesday, under control. Smoke from the fire has also affected air quality in various parts of the region.

Gavin Newsom said, “Firefighters and emergency workers are working to contain the fire and keep the surrounding community safe. California is taking the necessary steps to help Los Angeles.”

The state said it was preparing 5.5 million N-95 masks, air purifiers, bottled water and other emergency supplies. It is also increasing air quality monitoring.

Earlier, Los Angeles Mayor Karen Beas declared a local state of emergency. She said authorities were concerned about the potential impact on the health of residents in the surrounding area.

Karen Beas said, “We clearly need additional assistance to take the necessary steps to keep the area safe.”

Officials said 85 million pounds (39 million kilograms) of frozen food stored in the storage facility could be spoiled, creating a potential biohazard situation.

Los Angeles Fire Department Chief Jamie Moore said that hazardous refrigerants, including ammonia, have already been removed from the site.

According to reports, a helicopter has been deployed to control the fire and the helicopter can drop up to 3,000 gallons of water at a time. Various fire-fighting materials are also being used to quickly control the fire.

Meanwhile, a smoke alert remains in effect on Sunday due to the fire. At the same time, firefighters continue to fight the fire.