A large vegetation fire, known as the Border 2 Fire, ignited Thursday afternoon near the U.S.-Mexico border. As of Friday morning, January 24, 2025, the fire has consumed approximately 4,250 acres and is reported to be only 10% contained.
- What to know: Border 2 Fire
- Size: 4,250 acres, 10% contained
- Evacuation centers established in El Cajon
- Road closures include Alta and Otay Lakes
- School closures in Chula Vista District
- Smoke advisory for Otay Mesa area
The Border 2 Fire started on a hilltop close to Otay Mountain, with flames visible racing up the hillside. Initial reports indicated a dangerous rate of spread; however, firefighters later assessed it as moderate as their containment efforts progressed. By early Friday morning, the extent of the blaze had grown significantly from an initial 20 acres at around 2:30 p.m. to over 1,000 acres by dawn.
Key details regarding the situation include:
- Size: 4,250 acres
- Containment: 10%
- Evacuation centers located at:
- Edwards Cinema – Parking lot at 2951 Jamacha Road, El Cajon
- Southwestern College – 900 Otay Lakes Rd, Chula Vista
- Road closures affecting:
- Alta Road south of Otay Mesa Road
- Otay Lakes Road from Wueste to CA-94 Campo Road
- School closures in Chula Vista Elementary School District affecting several schools including Salt Creek and Olympic View.
A smoke advisory is currently in effect for Otay Mesa and surrounding areas due to air quality concerns stemming from the fire. Residents are urged to stay informed about evacuation orders and road conditions as firefighters continue their efforts to contain this rapidly spreading blaze.
The ongoing firefighting efforts aim to control the Border 2 Fire while ensuring public safety through evacuations and road closures. Authorities will continue monitoring the situation closely as they work towards full containment.
