Hazardous Lithium-Ion Battery Fire Prompts Evacuations in La Verne

The city of La Verne issued evacuation orders following a dangerous lithium-ion battery fire at a Metropolitan Water District of Southern California facility. The fire erupted around 11 a.m. in the 3200 block of Wheeler Avenue. Both the Los Angeles County Fire Department and the La Verne Fire Department are tackling the blaze.

The fire originated in a battery energy storage system located near a solar panel field on the northeast side of the facility, which includes the Weymouth Water Treatment Plant. The water district assured that the water supply remains unaffected, and they are assisting first responders to ensure public safety.

Residents close to Wheeler and Bonita avenues were ordered to evacuate. Shelter-in-place orders were issued for Grace Miller Elementary and Bonita High schools. The University of La Verne canceled classes, urging students, staff, and faculty to leave immediately. An evacuation shelter is available at La Verne Community Center, 3680 D St. A map detailing evacuation orders is provided.

Lithium-ion battery fires pose significant challenges. They generate excessive heat that triggers a chemical reaction known as thermal runaway. This reaction is self-sustaining and can spread to nearby batteries, causing prolonged fires. Such fires may last for days and release toxic gases like hydrogen fluoride, hydrogen chloride, carbon monoxide, and carbon dioxide.

The extent of the hazardous materials fire in La Verne is still uncertain. Updates will follow as more information becomes available.