A large fire continues to burn at a cold-storage warehouse in Boyle Heights, presenting complex challenges for firefighters and raising concerns about air quality in the surrounding community. The blaze, which started Wednesday afternoon at the Lineage Logistics facility, has yet to be fully contained.

Emergency responders have faced multiple hazards while battling the fire, including ammonia leaks, steel walls coated with gas-emitting foam insulation, and solar panels on the building’s roof. These factors have complicated firefighting efforts and prolonged the incident beyond initial expectations.

In response, California Governor Gavin Newsom and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass have both declared a state of emergency, mobilizing additional resources to support firefighting operations and assist local residents affected by the blaze. Community organizations, along with the offices of Assemblymember Mark González and City Councilmember Ysabel Jurado, have distributed masks and air purifiers to help mitigate health risks associated with smoke exposure.

Air quality officials issued two shelter-in-place advisories for Boyle Heights and nearby neighborhoods as smoke and toxic emissions spread, but both were lifted shortly afterwards. Authorities have maintained that current air quality levels do not pose a significant health threat to the public, although some residents remain concerned about ongoing smoke and pollution.

The incident has reignited long-standing frustrations in the Boyle Heights area, known for years of environmental challenges due to industrial activity and poor air quality. Residents reported significant smoke reducing visibility along the 5 Freeway Saturday morning, underscoring the persistent impact of the fire on daily life.

Fire officials continue to monitor the situation while working to fully extinguish the blaze. Authorities have not yet released a cause for the fire, and investigations remain ongoing. Meanwhile, local leaders emphasize the need to address environmental health hazards as part of broader efforts to safeguard communities in East Los Angeles.