US: Authorities close multiple terminals at Port of Los Angeles as of late Sept. 26 in response to lithium battery fire in San Pedro, Calif. /update 1

Authorities are closing several terminals at the Port of Los Angeles, California, through Sept. 27 in response to a battery fire in the port area. Affected terminals include:

• APM Terminals

• Fenix Marine

• Everport

• Yusen

The incident occurred when a semi-truck carrying lithium-ion batteries overturned and caught fire in the vicinity of 940 North Seaside Avenue in the San Pedro area of Los Angeles, California, at approximately 14:00 Sept. 26. The crash reportedly damaged the batteries, setting them ablaze and releasing gas; authorities have also reported the explosion of at least one of the batteries. Firefighters and hazmat specialists deployed to the scene and asserted that there is "no widespread or off-site hazard"; they have further stated they cannot put out the fire, which will likely burn into June 28. No casualties or evacuation orders were immediately reported.

Amid the emergency response, authorities have closed Highway 47 (North Seaside Avenue) in both directions between the southbound Interstate 710 (I-710)/Highway 47 transition (Exit 1) to Harbor Boulevard (Exit 1C), including the Vincent Thomas Bridge. Officials have implemented traffic diversions in the area, and significant traffic congestion is ongoing. Authorities have not said when their emergency response will likely conclude, and the affected route will reopen to traffic.

Organizations dependent on shipping goods through the Port of Los Angeles are likely to experience business disruptions over the coming days. Once port operations are restored, lingering disruptions will likely occur as the port works through the backlog of freight. A heightened emergency response and localized transport and business disruptions are likely in the area through Sept. 26. Authorities may extend port closures.