Regarding the news about the closure of the 10 freeway in downtown LA due to a massive fire at a storage yard, Katie thanks the viewers and begins by providing updates. Erin Myers, reporting live from downtown LA, mentions that the firefighters are still present, working on extinguishing flare-ups. The fire has not yet been officially put out, and firefighters have been at the scene since around 12:30 am.
They are currently dealing with intense flames on the off-ramp, which has actually melted some of the guardrail. Erin also shows live video footage of the traffic backup on the closed freeway and advises viewers to avoid the area. The fire started before 12:30 am, and multiple fire companies were called in to battle the blaze.
Fortunately, nearby commercial buildings were protected, but trailers, vehicles, and pallets in the storage yards were destroyed. It appears that a couple of vehicles on 14th street were also damaged. In total, there were 26 fire companies and over 160 firefighters on the ground, and additional equipment, such as excavators and an Arab robot firefighter, was brought in to assist.
Due to concerns about the structural integrity of the columns, firefighters have not been sent underneath the overpass. Once the fire is completely extinguished, a structural engineer from Caltrans will assess the freeway’s integrity. Hazmat teams will also need to ensure the safety of the area before the engineers can proceed. The engineers will conduct tests to determine the damage and determine whether concrete or rebar needs replacement.
One fire engine was also damaged during the fire, but no injuries were reported as everyone under the freeway was able to evacuate safely..
