Inferno at the Worlds Largest Battery Storage Plant Sparks Toxic Smoke

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A lithium-ion battery fire erupted at the Moss Landing Energy Storage Facility on Thursday, lasting through the night and reigniting on Friday. A local state of emergency was declared, with the county board of supervisors planning to ratify it at a special meeting on Tuesday. This facility, owned by Vistra Energy, is the largest battery storage plant globally. The fire’s cause is unknown, but typical of lithium-ion fires, it burns extremely hot and is challenging to extinguish. Officials reported that 75% of the facility had burned. Firefighters are not actively combating the fire, instead allowing it to burn out naturally. As of Saturday, the flames had lessened, but the building was still smoldering.

The fire involved multiple batteries, preventing firefighters from stopping it once it began. The facility’s fire suppression system failed to contain the fire, though details of the failure were not disclosed. The Elkhorn Slough Reserve is closed due to potential health risks from the fire.

Evacuation orders were lifted by 6 p.m. Friday. Initially, evacuations were ordered for Moss Landing and nearby rural areas. Caltrans announced that Highway 1  reopenned on Sunday at 5 p.m., and the California Highway Patrol will remain at the site. Travelers are advised to be cautious of emergency responders still present at the incident command center.

The smoke from the fire is toxic but has risen high enough not to currently threaten residents, according to officials. Monterey County health authorities advise residents to stay indoors, close windows and doors, limit outdoor activities, and turn off ventilation systems. San Benito and Santa Cruz counties have issued similar recommendations. People are advised to minimize outdoor time and wear a N95 mask or other protective mask if necessary.