The Port of Los Angeles tweeted this picture at 1:29PM stating that the wharf fire at Berths 177 and 179, which began Monday evening and has been smoldering since around 8:30PM, is now 90% contained. 

Fire in Port of Los Angeles Impacting Long Beach Air Quality, City Urges Residents to Be Advised

11:52AM  |  A wharf fire in the Port of Los Angeles (POLA) is impacting Long Beach with smoke conditions, city officials said today.

The Long Beach Department of Health and Human Services issued a smoke advisory today for portions of coastal and West Long Beach due to the fire. Residents in the area should avoid any rigorous activity, the department said.

“This is especially advised for residents with respiratory or heart disease, the elderly, and children who should all remain indoors today in these impacted areas,” said City Manager Patrick H. West. “Windows and doors in impacted areas should be kept closed.”

Long Beach Fire Department (LBFD) personnel were requested to assist under a mutual aid response with the fire last night, LBFD spokesman Brian Fisk told the Post. He said the LBFD sent out two fire boats and the Urban Search and Rescue Task Force.

“[LA County Fire] needed breaking and breaching from our Urban Search and Rescue Task Force,” he said. “They needed our resources to help put this fire out.”

The LBFD is working to rotate crews until the fire is extinguished, he said.

The Long Beach Police Department was also requested for perimeter security.

Smoke from the fire is impacting Port of Long Beach (POLB) operations, West said, with three out of the six cargo container terminals in the POLB shutting down operations due to smoke plumes from the fire.

Long Beach Unified School District Superintendent Chris Steinhauser advised principals at 8:50AM this morning to limit outdoor physical activities.

The South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD) said in a statement that more downwind areas may experience smoke today due to the sea breeze.

“In any area impacted by smoke: Everyone should avoid any vigorous outdoor or indoor exertion; people with respiratory or heart disease, the elderly, and children should remain indoors,” SCAQMD said. “Keep windows and doors closed or seek alternate shelter. Run your air conditioner if you have one. Keep the fresh air intake closed and the filter clean to prevent bringing additional smoke inside.”