Governor Gavin Newsom has declared a state of emergency in response to a massive fire that occurred in downtown Los Angeles, resulting in the closure of part of the 10 Freeway. The fire broke out early Saturday morning at a pallet yard near East 14th and Alameda streets, quickly spreading to nearby storage yards and engulfing both sides of 14th Street under the freeway. The fire caused damage to the freeway’s steel guardrails and firetrucks. The Los Angeles Fire Department deployed over 160 firefighters from 26 companies and a helicopter to combat the blaze. Although three nearby buildings were saved, the freeway sustained severe damage, and a homeless encampment had to be evacuated as the flames consumed the area.
Governor Newsom’s declaration of a state emergency will help facilitate clean-up and repair work. Caltrans will formally request assistance from the Federal Highway Administration’s Emergency Relief Program if necessary. The closure of the 10 Freeway between Alameda Street and Santa Fe Avenue is expected to last more than 24 hours as Caltrans crews inspect the structural integrity of the overpass. Several interchanges are also either diverted or closed to traffic. Drivers are advised to seek alternate routes.
Governor Newsom expressed gratitude to the first responders and firefighters who have been working tirelessly to contain the fire. The state will assess the damage, remove hazardous waste, and begin repairs as soon as access to the site is possible. Mayor Karen Bass also assured that efforts are underway to assess the damages and support affected commuters, businesses, and travelers. The cause of the fire is still under investigation.
