On September 26, a semi-truck carrying hazardous materials overturned in San Pedro, California, causing a fire and toxic gas leak.
Currently, due to the impact of the accident, Highway 47 in the Long Beach area has been partially closed. In addition, the Los Angeles port was completely shut down following the accident and is expected to remain closed until 6 p.m. tonight.
Details of the Incident:
According to a statement by the Los Angeles Consumer Bureau, the accident occurred around 11:00 a.m. on September 26. The overturned truck was carrying a container loaded with large lithium batteries (specific size or quantity not yet known). Due to the vehicle overturning, the batteries were damaged and are now on fire, releasing harmful gases.
As a result, Highway 47 between Vincent Thomas Bridge’s western side at San Pedro Harbor Boulevard and the eastern side at Highway 710 has been closed. According to California Highway Patrol officials, the Vincent Thomas Bridge may remain closed for 24 to 48 hours, which will inevitably lead to severe traffic congestion in the area, especially affecting truck traffic.
Meanwhile, the Pacific Maritime Association issued a statement regarding this incident, noting that the accident has disrupted operations at both the Port of Los Angeles and the Port of Long Beach, significantly altering their dispatch schedules. The statement read: “Our organization is following the directives of the Los Angeles Fire Department, which has designated a 1,000-foot radius around the fire area to ensure public safety.”
Additionally, according to the Montreal Port Authority, the following terminals will cancel all labor orders for Thursday evening and Friday:
- APM Terminals (Pier 400)
- Fenix Marine Services (Pier 300)
- Everport Terminal Services
- Yusen Terminals
- PASHA TI
- PIER S
- PIER A
- Total Terminals International
Conclusion:
The saying “when it rains, it pours” seems apt here. This accident has led to the closure of some highways and terminals in the U.S. West Coast. First, it means some Amazon sellers counting on the autumn sale are definitely going to miss out; secondly, with the increased traffic at West Coast ports due to the East Coast strikes, things are only going to get more delayed. Sigh, it’s hard to tell how many logistics companies will have to compensate for these delays.
