Wildfires Rage in San Diego County Under Dangerous Conditions
Wildfires Continue to Spread in San Diego County Amid Dangerous Conditions
A series of wildfires erupted in San Diego County on Thursday, with the most significant being the Border 2 Fire in the Otay Mountains near the U.S.-Mexico border. The fire, which started around 2:20 p.m., quickly grew to over 600 acres by evening, with 0% containment reported. Cal Fire described the blaze as having a “dangerous rate of spread,” fueled by strong Santa Ana winds, low humidity, and dry vegetation.
The Border 2 Fire threatened critical communication infrastructure on Otay Mountain, including transmitters used by U.S. Customs and Border Protection. While no structures were immediately at risk, heavy smoke prompted air quality warnings for nearby communities, including Otay Mesa and Tijuana. Residents were advised to limit outdoor activities, especially those with respiratory conditions.
Simultaneously, the Gilman Fire broke out in La Jolla, burning 3 acres near residential areas. Evacuation orders were issued but later lifted as firefighters halted the fire’s progress. Both fires occurred under a Red Flag Warning, with wind gusts reaching up to 38 mph and humidity levels as low as 6%.
Over 200 firefighters responded to the Border 2 Fire, supported by helicopters, water tenders, and dozers. Cal Fire officials noted that the fire’s rapid spread was unusual for January, attributing it to prolonged dry conditions and the lack of measurable rainfall this season. Rain expected on Sunday raised concerns about potential mudslides, though officials believe the fire’s remote location minimizes the risk to structures.
The Border 2 Fire is one of several blazes in Southern California this week, highlighting the region’s ongoing vulnerability to wildfires despite being in the middle of the rainy season. Authorities continue to monitor the situation, urging residents to stay informed and prepared for potential evacuations.
Border 2 Fire 6 PM update | Wildfire in Otay Mountains continues to grow
The fire was reported around 2:20 p.m. Thursday in the Otay Mountains of San Diego's South Bay near the border.
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Border 2 Fire burns over 500 acres with 0% containment
Cal Fire crews are battling a brush fire that erupted on Otay Mountain Thursday afternoon.
fox5sandiego.com
Border 2 Fire map: Blaze with 'dangerous rate' erupts at California's Otay Mountain
The Border 2 Fire burning at Otay Mountain near San Diego is yet another blaze in fire-weary Southern California. See the fire map.
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Brush Fire With 'Dangerous' Rate Of Spread Burning On Otay Mountain In San Diego County
The blaze, called the Border 2 Fire, was burning in the area of Otay Mountain Truck Trail, according to Cal Fire.
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Gilman Fire, Border 2 fire 4PM update | Fires break out across San Diego County
The Gilman Fire in La Jolla was stopped at 3 acres and evacuation orders have been lifted. The Border 2 Fire continues to spread with little containme
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Photos captured from fires in La Jolla, Otay Mountain
Multiple fires broke out Thursday in the San Diego area as strong gusty winds and low relative humidity impact parts of San Diego County.
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