URGENT UPDATE: A significant emergency is unfolding at the Port of Los Angeles as firefighters battle a hazardous fire on the cargo ship 1 Henry Hudson. Over 100 firefighters are on the scene combating the blaze that erupted at 6:38 p.m. on Friday night.
The fire, believed to have started from an electrical issue below deck, escalated quickly, with an explosion reported around 8:00 p.m.. This explosion disrupted essential power systems, affecting lights and cranes on the ship. Authorities confirmed that hazardous materials are present in several cargo containers, prompting all firefighting personnel to don protective suits and oxygen masks.
Specialized hazardous materials crews are actively monitoring air quality as they work to suppress the fire in the vessel’s sub-levels. Marine crews are also cooling the exterior of the ship to improve conditions for firefighting efforts. As of 8:00 p.m., LAFD incident command ordered that no firefighters enter below deck due to safety concerns, and containment efforts are reportedly progressing slowly.
Earlier reports indicated that six crew members were unaccounted for, but by 8:30 p.m., LAFD confirmed that all 23 crew members have been located and safely assisted off the ship. Fortunately, no injuries have been reported amid the chaos.
The 1 Henry Hudson, registered under the flag of Panama, arrived in Los Angeles on Wednesday after its journey from Tokyo. In response to the incident, L.A. Mayor Karen Bass stated on X that the city is closely monitoring the situation as the fire continues to pose risks to the surrounding area.
As firefighting efforts remain ongoing, concerns about air quality and potential hazardous material exposure are paramount. Authorities are urging the public to stay away from the area while crews work tirelessly to bring the situation under control.
This is a developing story. Stay tuned for more updates as information becomes available.
