Los Angeles declares emergency as warehouse fire burns for 4th day
Why it matters: Smoke spread across much of the city, prompting air-quality warnings and relief centers for residents near Boyle Heights.
Los Angeles declared a state of emergency June 20 as firefighters battled a warehouse blaze that had been burning for four days and sending thick black smoke over much of the city. The fire started June 17 at a 46,400-square-meter frozen food warehouse in Boyle Heights. Fire crews said burning foam insulation, a suspected ammonia leak and melting solar panels made the operation harder. Officials initially told nearby residents to shelter in place, close windows and avoid the air, and the city opened round-the-clock relief centers. Those orders were later lifted, but air-quality officials still warned people in affected areas to avoid outdoor activity as concerns persisted over possible longer-term health effects.