UPDATE: A major emergency has been declared at the Port of Los Angeles as firefighters battle a dangerous fire on the cargo ship 1 Henry Hudson. Over 100 firefighters are currently engaged in this urgent operation, which erupted below deck due to an electrical fire reported at 6:38 p.m. on Friday night.
As the situation escalated, an explosion rocked the vessel just before 8 p.m., interrupting power to critical systems such as lights and cranes, according to the Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD). Firefighters are facing hazardous conditions due to the presence of hazardous materials in several cargo containers aboard the ship.
All firefighting personnel are equipped with protective suits and oxygen masks as they continue efforts to suppress the blaze in the ship’s sub-levels. Specially trained hazardous materials crews are on-site, monitoring air quality to ensure safety for both responders and the surrounding area.
Authorities have taken precautions by instructing that no firefighting members go below deck as of 8 p.m.. Progress in containing the fire remains slow, but officials confirmed the ship is not sinking, despite significant water being used in firefighting efforts.
Earlier reports stated that six crew members were unaccounted for; however, at 8:30 p.m., LAFD confirmed that all 23 crew members have been found and safely evacuated from the ship, with no injuries reported.
The 1 Henry Hudson, a 1,100-foot container vessel sailing under the flag of Panama, arrived at the Port of L.A. on Wednesday after its journey from Tokyo. L.A. Mayor Karen Bass has stated that the city is closely monitoring the situation as it develops.
This fire incident is ongoing and the situation could change rapidly. Authorities are urging the public to stay clear of the area as crews continue their efforts. Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
This is a developing story, and we will keep you informed with the latest developments.
