Entrepreneurs near the location of a massive fire in a car salvage yard in Lancaster, California, have expressed apprehension about the potential damage to their businesses. Thick black smoke and flying embers raise concerns about ruined inventory, business disruptions, and health risks for workers.
The fire consumed countless vehicles, inflicted significant damage, and threatened the surrounding businesses immediately. An estimated 1,500 cars were impacted, and about half of the 20-acre property was wiped out. Firefighters hours battling the raging flames.
The fire’s smoke cloud reduced visibility in Antelope Valley and raised health risks, with temperatures over 100 degrees. Due to the dense smoke, residents were advised to remain indoors, leading local authorities to declare an air quality emergency.
Lancaster yard fire poses business risks
Hospitals were on high alert as conditions worsened, preparing for a potential influx of patients with respiratory problems and heat-related illnesses. The local government set up evacuation centers in safer areas, converting schools and community buildings into sanctuaries for those fleeing the smoke and fire.
Bo Thevelius, a local businessman, decided to stay despite the evacuation orders. Remaining hopeful, he compared the approaching fire and the sound of exploding cars to a battlefield.
After battling incessant heat and potential hazards from exploding material, the Los Angeles County Fire Department knocked the fire down around 9:25 p.m. Battalion Chief Randy Perry mentioned that the fire’s severity resulted in excess hydrocarbons, contributing to the dark smoke.
Fortunately, Thevelius’s business was spared from fire damage. However, other local businesses expressed concerns about the potentially harmful effects of wind shifts. Fellow business owner David Polak voiced his worries about the fire’s ability to spread outwards, impacting areas not initially suffering smoke damage.
The source of the fire is still unknown, though LA County Fire Captain Sheila Kelliher suggests that a malfunctioning hydraulic car crusher may have been the initial ignition source. Investigations are underway to determine the exact cause of this devastating event.
