A fire, known as the Border 2 fire, has spread through over 500 acres of wilderness in San Diego County near the U.S.-Mexico border as of January 24, 2025. Firefighters are making progress in controlling the blaze, which is currently miles away from any homes or structures.
- Border 2 fire spreads over 500 acres.
- Firefighters using air tankers and helicopters.
- Otay Mountain Wilderness presents access challenges.
- Chula Vista monitoring fire; no evacuations yet.
- Smoke visible in Tijuana, Mexico.
- Winds at 25 mph affecting firefighting efforts.
The Border 2 fire ignited on Thursday afternoon and quickly expanded within hours. Approximately 200 firefighters are engaged in efforts to contain the flames using both ground crews and aerial support. Captain Robert Johnson of Cal Fire indicated that conditions in the Otay Mountain Wilderness complicate ground access due to steep terrain but also help protect populated areas.
Key details about the fire include:
- Location: Otay Mountain Wilderness, San Diego County
- Size: Over 500 acres
- Firefighting resources: Around 200 firefighters on-site
- Wind conditions: Winds blowing at approximately 25 miles per hour
Officials from Chula Vista, located about five miles west of the fire, have deployed extra police officers to monitor potential evacuation needs. Although smoke is visible across the border in Tijuana, Mexico, officials report no immediate threat to cross into Mexico. Cal Fire maintains a liaison with Mexican firefighting agencies should coordination become necessary.
The nearest industrial area is Otay Mesa, situated two miles southwest of the blaze. Despite ongoing containment efforts amid challenging weather conditions, firefighters continue to make headway against this wildfire.
The Border 2 fire remains under control as firefighters work diligently to manage its spread. With no immediate threats to structures or populated areas reported so far, authorities continue monitoring developments closely.