A fire and explosion on the container ship One Henry Hudson prompted the evacuation of all crew members at San Pedro Port on November 21, 2025. The incident disrupted the vessel’s power and crane operations, leading to a significant emergency response from local authorities.
The Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) reported that hazardous materials were identified in several bays at the port. Firefighters, equipped with protective gear and self-contained breathing equipment, are actively working to manage the situation. Marine units are cooling the ship’s exterior, and access below deck has been restricted to ensure safety.
Television footage from an ABC affiliate illustrated the intensity of the response, showing firefighting boats spraying water onto the ship’s sides and over containers ablaze on the deck. The port’s operations have been severely impacted, with four out of seven container terminals suspending their activities. A waterside safety zone has been established around the vessel to protect personnel and equipment.
In light of the hazardous materials incident, LAFD issued a shelter-in-place order for residents of San Pedro and Wilmington. Mayor Karen Bass stressed the importance of this directive, advising residents to remain indoors, close windows, and turn off air conditioning systems to avoid inhaling potentially harmful fumes.
The One Henry Hudson, registered under the Panama flag, arrived in Los Angeles on November 18 from Tokyo’s Shinagawa Port, according to data from LSEG. California Governor Gavin Newsom, in a post on X, confirmed that his office is coordinating with local authorities to support first responders at the scene.
As of now, no injuries have been reported, and the fire suppression efforts are ongoing. The vessel is docked at the Yusen Container Terminal, where more than 100 firefighters are engaged in combating the blaze. The air quality is under constant monitoring to ensure the safety of both emergency personnel and local residents.
The incident highlights the ongoing challenges faced by ports in managing hazardous materials and ensuring the safety of maritime operations. Further updates will be provided as the situation develops and fire crews continue their efforts to bring the fire under control.
