Blog Layout

California Wildfires' Impact on Carrier Transportation Operations

Joe McDevitt • January 10, 2025

Wildfires Near Los Angeles Spark Widespread Concern

California's ongoing wildfires are posing serious challenges near Los Angeles and Long Beach. Five separate fires are burning on the outskirts of the Los Angeles metro area. The most devastating fires are in Palisades and Pasadena.


In Palisades, the fire remains 0% contained, while the Pasadena fire is only 6% contained. Combined, these fires have destroyed over 30,000 acres, leaving 9,000 homes in ruins and tragically resulting in 10 deaths. High winds continue to fuel the flames, making containment efforts extremely difficult.


Experts warn that Los Angeles is still at significant risk, and this disaster could become the costliest wildfire event in U.S. history. Much of Los Angeles County remains under a red flag warning, with high fire danger expected through Friday night. On Thursday afternoon, additional evacuation orders were issued as flames climbed toward Mt. Wilson. Meanwhile, some mandatory evacuations were lifted, allowing residents of Glenoaks Canyon and Chevy Chase Canyon to safely return to their homes.


Governor Gavin Newsom announced that the fire was only 3% contained as of 7:30 a.m. this morning, underscoring the challenges firefighters still are facing.

California Wildfire transportation sector update

How the Wildfires Are Impacting Transportation in Greater Los Angeles

Carriers and shippers are closely watching the evolving situation. If the fires continue to grow or spread toward more densely populated areas, it could lead to significant delays or interruptions in transportation services. I would like to alleviate some concern however, TLI has been actively communicating with carriers in the affected areas. Fortunately, there have been no significant disruptions to LTL (less-than-truckload) carrier operations so far. Terminals remain open & operational, and transport services are still being offered.


Carriers are continuing to make pickups and deliveries and are doing a commendable job under the circumstances. However, we want to emphasize that if the fires worsen, there could be further transit delays within the impacted service zones.


However, deliveries within the impacted zones are understandably delayed. The fires are located within service areas, and continued high winds increase the risk of broader disruptions if the fires spread further into metro areas.


We will provide updates promptly should the situation change. TLI remains committed to staying informed and relaying updates to clients. With the fires posing a dynamic and unpredictable threat, proactive communication between all parties is critical to mitigating potential disruptions.

TLI Insights


For the latest insights, tips and commentary surrounding the logistics industry, look no further. Shippers will find thoughts from the award-winning team at Translogistics covering everything related to your transportation processes and plans. If you have a question we are readily available at marketing@tli.email 

Email Updates:


Subscribe

Social Media:


Check out more Blog Posts from TLI:

Port Strike Deal
By Joe McDevitt January 10, 2025
Port Strike Concerns Alleviated as dockworkers, ports, and shipping companies reach a tentative six-year deal, avoiding disruption across U.S. coasts.
NMFC 2025 Changes
By Joe McDevitt January 3, 2025
Stay informed about the NMFC Changes 2025 and how TLI's ViewPoint TMS simplifies the transition with automated freight classification and built-in density calculations.
port strike 2025
By Joe McDevitt January 2, 2025
ILA and USMX are set to resume contract talks amid a looming port strike, urging shippers to prepare ahead of the January 15 deadline.
More Posts
Share by: