A shelter-in-place order was lifted Saturday morning for San Pedro and Wilmington after a large fire broke out on a cargo ship carrying hazardous materials. The blaze started Friday night, prompting safety measures due to concerns about toxic smoke. Thankfully, all 23 crew members were safely rescued, and no injuries were reported.
The ship, named One Henry Hudson, measures 1,100 feet and caught fire below deck around 6:38 p.m. An explosion rocked the vessel shortly before 8 p.m., cutting off power to lights and cranes. The Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) confirmed that they moved the ship to open water, about a mile from shore, which helped reduce risks for nearby residents.
Firefighters worked tirelessly, using drones for thermal imaging and protective suits to manage air quality. Initially, 100 containers were on fire, but by Saturday morning, the fire had been contained to a single compartment. LAFD Captain Adam VanGerpen stated, “Air quality is reporting in the green,” allowing officials to lift the shelter order.
While fighting the fire, marine crews cooled the ship’s exterior to create safer conditions for firefighters inside. However, they were instructed not to go below deck until it was deemed safe. The U.S. Coast Guard established a safety perimeter around the vessel, which has since been reduced to a half-mile.
Historical context shows that incidents like this aren’t rare. A report by the National Transportation Safety Board revealed a significant uptick in maritime accidents involving hazardous materials over the past decade. With globalization increasing the number of cargo shipments, incidents like the One Henry Hudson fire highlight the importance of ongoing safety training and rapid emergency response.
The One Henry Hudson had arrived from Tokyo just days before the fire. Local officials, including L.A. Mayor Karen Bass and Governor Gavin Newsom, monitored the situation closely, highlighting the community’s commitment to safety and preparedness.
As of now, crews will continue their work until the situation fully stabilizes, ensuring the safety of both the crew and the environment. For more information on safety measures in maritime operations, you can visit the U.S. Coast Guard website.
