Military Training Exercises Prompt Warnings in Southern California Cities

City officials in Long Beach and the City of Industry alert residents about potential noise disturbances from military training exercises scheduled for Thursday night. Helicopters, controlled explosions, and simulated weapons fire may be heard until 2 a.m. in the east area of Long Beach. Local police will be present to manage pedestrian and vehicle safety, with disturbances expected to last until 1 a.m. in Long Beach.

In a statement, the city of Long Beach mentioned that to maintain operational safety, further details about the training’s nature, location, or timing cannot be disclosed. The public and media are not permitted to attend the event.

This warning follows similar announcements made on Wednesday by the cities of Irvine and Pasadena, where military drills also occurred. Lisa Derderian, a spokesperson for Pasadena, explained that these exercises are standard military drills conducted nationwide. Nonetheless, Pasadena officials aimed to reassure the public, considering heightened sensitivities during the election week.

Derderian emphasized the importance of communication through various platforms like social media, Nixle, and reverse 911 to keep the public informed.

The Pasadena training occurred at the old St. Luke Hospital building, situated near Altadena Drive and Washington Boulevard, according to a source familiar with the operation yet unauthorized to comment publicly. Despite city-issued warnings, some residents in Pasadena and Irvine expressed concern over the secrecy and noise of the exercises.

Clara Harter, a breaking news reporter for the Los Angeles Times, covered this development. In her career, she has focused on politics and education, previously contributing to the L.A. Daily News. Harter holds degrees in political science and Middle Eastern studies from Columbia University.