Los Banos, CA (March 2, 2026) — An ammonia leak in the 300 block of Johnson Road prompted a shelter-in-place advisory this morning as Los Banos Police and Fire personnel responded to the scene.
The incident was initially reported as a chemical leak. The Los Banos Police Department later confirmed the substance involved was ammonia.
According to LBPD, residents in the nearby area were asked to shelter in place and avoid the area while emergency crews worked to mitigate the leak.
“Based on current assessments and air monitoring, the smell many residents are noticing is not life-threatening,” the department stated. Authorities added that there is “no immediate danger to the general public.”
Public safety personnel remain on scene repairing the source of the leak and continuing to monitor air quality. Officials said updates will be provided if conditions change.
As a precaution, police recommended that schools and residents limit outdoor activities until the odor dissipates and the scene is fully mitigated.
The Los Banos Unified School District acknowledged earlier emergency alerts issued by city officials and confirmed it had been in contact with the Fire Chief.
“The district is aware of a message sent out by city officials this morning,” LBUSD stated in a public notice. “Since then, we have been in contact with the Fire Chief and assured that it is safe for all staff and students to attend school today. We will be operating as normal.”
District officials added they are closely working with city officials to monitor the situation and said additional updates would be communicated to families through Parent Square if necessary.
Authorities continue to advise residents to avoid the 300 block of Johnson Road while crews complete mitigation efforts.
