HOUSTON — A fire erupted at Mammoth Metal Recycling near the intersection of Kellogg and Lawndale streets at approximately 2:49 p.m. on Monday, June 22, 2026. The Houston Fire Department stated that a large pile of tires, trash, and debris on the property ignited.

Houston Fire Department Chief Thomas Munoz stated the fire and smoke covered an area about the size of a football field. Approximately 100 firefighters were rotated in and out of the scene to battle the blaze. No injuries have been reported.

The fire continued burning into Tuesday, June 23, 2026. Houston Fire Department firefighters, Public Works, and the Health Department remained on scene. Chief Munoz said, "At this time, there is no immediate danger to the community, and we will maintain a presence here for as long as necessary to ensure the area remains safe."

The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, and the U.S. Coast Guard are monitoring air quality and water runoff in the surrounding area, and Hazmat teams have been on scene. Harris County Environmental Response is also monitoring air quality across the region. Dr. Inyang Uwak, a doctor with Air Alliance Houston, recommended that people in the area stay indoors and wear a mask if venturing outside. Dr. Uwak stated the fire released particulate matter, carbon monoxide, and heavy metals into the air.

Claudia De la Rosa, a local resident, described experiencing physical symptoms from the smoke. "My nose was kind of itchy, so I told my husband I didn't want to be at my house," De la Rosa said. She added, "Right now, I guess just the breathing — you can still see the smoke, and you're like breathing all the air."