Wildfires Wreak Havoc on California and Supply Chains

2024-02-26T19:00:38+00:00November 15th, 2018|Domestic, Industry Spotlight, Shipping News|

Three fast-moving wildfires have raged across California within the past week wreaking havoc on millions of  lives. One of them, Camp Fire, has destroyed Paradise, California and leveled the town’s 26,000 homes, leaving most the residents homeless. The wildfire has become the state’s deadliest and most destructive fire in California’s history with the blaze scorching over 130,000 acres and taking over 40 victims. At 35 percent containment, the wildfire is expected to continue its disruption in the coming days. The other blazes, Hill Fire and Woosley, are still in the process of being contained at 94 percent and 47 percent, respectively.

With destruction stacked across the horizon, the flames have caused abrupt, unpredictable interstate closures and major disruptions to the movement of freight.  The California Department of Transportation has reported closures among Highway 101, Interstate 5, and Highway 118, straining supply chains around the Los Angeles area. Truckers are expected to re-route to avoid the smoke at all costs. Reduced visibility and smoke pollution could cause health issues and increase the potential for road accidents. Drivers who choose to stop for breaks near fire locations are being advised to stay indoors even if they are a safe distance from the fires.

 

With weather remaining the weakest link of the supply chain, shippers should also expect a surge in spot rates for freight coming in and out of Los Angeles in the next week due to the impact of the flames.  Conditions are still changing rapidly based on wind direction and it is unsure of when the public can expect complete containment. The National Weather Service has extended Red Flag Warnings through the weekend with the possibility of additional fires and growth of the active three.

HOW YOU CAN HELP

Donate funds or blood to the American Red Cross. The Red Cross has also opened shelters to help evacuees. To make a donation visit the redcross.org, call 1-800-RED or text the word REDCROSS to 90999.

For Northern California assistance, the North Valley Community Foundation based in Chico is raising money to support organizations that are taking in evacuees of the Camp Fire.

For Southern California assistance, the United Way of Greater Los Angeles is raising money for those affected by the Woolsey and Hill fires, specifically to assist low-income residents. Text “UWVC” to 41444 or you can donate here.

To view Red Flag Warnings, visit here.

Together, we can all help California during this difficult time!

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