US, Los Angeles: La Verne Hazardous Fire Prompts Evacuations at Water Treatment Plant Part 1.

Los Angeles, United States - September 22, 2026 09/22/2026 11:42 am GMT-0700 LA VERNE, Calif. – This morning, the Los Angeles County Fire Department and La Verne Fire Department responded to a fire at a water treatment plant located on the 3200 block of Wheeler Avenue in La Verne. Upon arrival, firefighters discovered a building engulfed in heavy fire and smoke. Due to the presence of lithium batteries and their potential to release harmful chemicals into the air, nearby residents were evacuated as a precautionary measure. The incident was upgraded to a hazardous materials situation, prompting a request for additional resources. Firefighters adopted a defensive strategy, using water to contain the blaze from a distance while ensuring the safety of personnel due to the risk posed by the lithium batteries. The Los Angeles County Fire Department issued an evacuation alert via cell phones, urging residents to leave the area. Nearby schools were evacuated, and parents were advised to pick up their children. Businesses to the east, including those on the 1600 block of Foothill, were also evacuated and temporarily closed. The parking lot at the Vons gas station was empty and cordoned off. As of 2 p.m., the Los Angeles County Fire Department has not provided additional information about the incident.