Massive blimp hangar fire shuts down schools, parks due to toxic chemicals

In California, the Orange County declared a local emergency on Thursday, Nov. 9, in response to the Tustin Marine Corps Air Station’s north hangar fire. The fire ignited around 1 a.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 7, and destroyed the facility.

The fire prompted a three-alarm response from fire crews. Both Tustin and the Orange County Fire Authority stated that the only viable approach to combat the fire was to allow the structure to collapse.

The South Coast Air Quality Management District (AQMD) found asbestos, lead, arsenic and nickel in air and ash samples. Authorities advise residents to exercise caution during the cleanup to minimize exposure to these toxic chemicals. Crews also collected samples in nearby neighborhoods to assess the potential presence of airborne toxins such as benzene.

“Everyone should be aware of the recommended precautions to reduce the health effects of smoke and ash from building fires,” said County Health Officer and OC Health Care Agency’s Director of Public Health Services Dr. Regina Chinsio-Kwong. “Extra measures may be needed for those with pre-existing medical conditions like heart or lung disease, those with disabilities, older adults, children and those who may be working outdoors.”

Teams took three bulk samples from debris at Veterans Sports Park in Tustin. Laboratory testing revealed asbestos in the samples, with percentages of 25%, 27% and 17%.

Burning or damaging building materials can release airborne asbestos, a naturally occurring mineral commonly used in construction before 1960, which poses an inhalation risk.

Orange County Declares Emergency Due to Former Tustin Marine Corps Air Station Hangar Fire

Read the complete press release at: https://t.co/GtqUx10o6W

Visit https://t.co/Y0nUFKZF5g for more helpful information.#TustinHangar #CountyofOrangeCA pic.twitter.com/VnQ6S9Ef8v

— County of Orange (@OCGovCA) November 10, 2023

“The city has contracted with certified asbestos contractors to further assess and remediate hazards to the public,” the City of Tustin announced on Thursday evening. “The contractor will provide a report to the city and more information will be shared with the community once complete.” 

The base was established in 1942 as the Santa Ana Naval Air Station. It housed blimps primarily used for patrolling America’s coastline to detect enemy submarines, according to the Tustin Area Historical Society.

The twin blimp hangars are recognized as two of the world’s largest freestanding wooden structures and have stood since World War II.

The north hangar served as a film location for several World War II period dramas, including “Pearl Harbor” in 2001, “The Hindenburg” in 1975 and “The Man’s Navy” in 1945.