Los Angeles officials have lifted the shelter-in-place order for residents of San Pedro and Wilmington following a major fire aboard the container ship ONE Henry Hudson at the Port of Los Angeles. The move comes after firefighters brought the blaze under substantial control, and all 23 crew members were confirmed safe.
The fire began late Friday evening, reportedly due to an electrical malfunction below deck, according to the Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD). Flames later caused a mid-deck explosion, prompting evacuation and temporary suspension of port operations. The incident disrupted crane activities and forced nearby terminals to halt work while safety assessments were conducted.
Early Saturday, authorities announced that the ship had been towed to open water to allow crews to continue fighting the remaining fire safely. The city emphasized that air quality in the surrounding neighborhoods is now safe, contributing to the decision to lift the shelter-in-place order.
Firefighting efforts involved dozens of LAFD personnel using both water and foam suppression techniques to cool the vessel. Officials noted that while the fire is largely contained, teams remain on standby to manage hot spots and prevent rekindling. Meanwhile, a half-nautical-mile safety perimeter has been established around the ship, and temporary flight restrictions remain in place for nearby airspace.
The Port of Los Angeles confirmed that port operations are gradually resuming. Terminal workers are returning to duties, although some safety restrictions remain in effect while authorities complete inspections and secure the area. Officials continue to investigate the cause of the fire, coordinating with federal agencies including the U.S. Coast Guard to ensure maritime safety standards are met.
No injuries were reported among the crew, and the rapid evacuation is being credited with preventing casualties. Residents in the nearby communities expressed relief as emergency alerts were lifted and daily routines resumed.
Port officials emphasized that the incident highlights the importance of emergency preparedness at busy shipping terminals. The container ship carried standard cargo, and there is no evidence of hazardous materials escaping into the environment. Air quality monitoring showed readings well within safe limits, reassuring residents who had feared exposure to smoke or chemical fumes.
The LAFD praised the coordinated efforts of firefighting teams, port authorities, and federal agencies, noting that their quick response prevented a potentially larger disaster. The agency also encouraged the public to remain aware of emergency alerts and to follow guidance during similar incidents in the future.
With the shelter-in-place lifted, normal traffic, business operations, and port logistics are expected to continue. Investigators will focus on determining the precise cause of the electrical fire and any lessons to improve safety protocols for future cargo operations.
The incident serves as a reminder of the risks inherent in maritime operations in one of the busiest ports in the United States and underscores the importance of robust safety and emergency response measures.
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