Port fire in San Pedro at Berth 179, where wood and tar pilings burned. Photo by Brad Graverson of The Daily Breeze.
[NOTE: Several media have reported that there were no injuries.]
A massive fire that consumed part of a wharf at the Port of Los Angeles continued to smolder today, as officials advised nearby residents in the Harbor Area and Long Beach to keep their windows closed to avoid the unhealthful smoke.
Longshore employees at several terminals were advised to contact their employers to see whether to come to work. About 8:30 a.m., Port of Los Angeles officials said all container terminals were closed for precautionary reasons because of the poor air quality.
By midmorning, smoke appeared to be the biggest problem in the region. The South Coast Air Quality Management District issued a smoke advisory for areas near the port, recommending residents who can see or smell smoke to avoid outdoor exposure and activity.
Los Angeles City Fire Chief Ralph Terrazas said arson investigators determined the blazed started accidentally with a welder’s torch.