Massive Cargo Ship Fire Prompts Emergency Response at Port of Los Angeles
Table of Contents
A major emergency was declared at the Port of Los Angeles Friday night as 186 firefighters battled a large and persistent fire aboard the container ship 1 Henry Hudson. The blaze, involving hazardous materials, triggered a significant response from local, state, and federal agencies.
An electrical fire was first reported below deck of the 1,100-foot vessel at 6:38 p.m., according to the Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD). Shortly before 8 p.m., an explosion rattled the ship, disrupting power to essential systems like lighting and cranes.
Hazardous Materials Complicate Firefighting Efforts
The presence of hazardous materials within several cargo containers has significantly complicated firefighting efforts. All personnel engaged in suppressing the blaze are equipped with full protective suits and oxygen masks, according to the LAFD. Specially trained crews are actively monitoring air quality around the port to ensure public safety.
Marine units are working to cool the exterior of the ship, aiming to improve conditions for firefighters working to contain the fire in the vessel’s lower levels. As of 8 p.m., incident command had determined it was too dangerous to send firefighters below deck. Containment efforts were described as progressing slowly at that time. Despite the extensive use of water, authorities confirmed the ship was not in danger of sinking.
Crew Accounted For, Bridge Closure Impacts Traffic
Earlier in the evening, authorities reported that six crew members were initially unaccounted for. However, the LAFD confirmed at 8:30 p.m. that all 23 crew members had been located and safely evacuated from the ship. Fortunately, no injuries have been reported.
The California Highway Patrol announced at 10:30 p.m. the closure of the Vincent Thomas Bridge, a critical access point to the port’s terminals, until further notice. Motorists are strongly advised to avoid the area and utilize alternative routes. The U.S. Coast Guard has established a one-nautical-mile safety perimeter around the vessel.
Vessel Details and Official Response
The 1 Henry Hudson is registered under the flag of Panama and arrived at the Port of Los Angeles on Wednesday following a voyage from Tokyo, according to Vessel Finder. Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass released a statement on X (formerly Twitter) indicating the city is closely monitoring the situation. Governor Gavin Newsom has been briefed on the incident, and his office is coordinating with local authorities to provide support for the emergency response.
.
The situation remains fluid, and authorities continue to work towards full containment of the fire.
