Updated on 3 November 2019
The Situation:
Recent wildfires in Baja California – Tecate, Rosarito, Tijuana, Ensenada – have led to
several road closures along the Tijuana-Ensenada Free Highway since 20 October. Some of
these closures have lasted from a few hours to nearly 20 hours. This alert is sent to raise
awareness of possible impacts to overland travel.
As of 2 November 2019, Mexican authorities say two people have been killed and 35 homes
damaged by two wildfires burning in the northwestern border state of Baja California. In
Rosarito, a fire that closed the highway burned approximately 60 acres and was 95%
contained as of the last report. In Ensenada, a fire approximately 18 miles southeast of the
city center destroyed 25 acres and was 100% under control, according to authorities. Two
were reported dead and around 30 homes were destroyed as a result of the two fires.
Over the last two weeks, various fires have also destroyed land and homes throughout
Tijuana.
No rain is reported in the forecast for Baja California.
Possible Effects:
Smoke, heavy at times which may cause reduced visibility
Possible road closures, especially along the Tijuana-Ensenada Free Highway
Possible power outages in homes and places of work near current fires
Evacuation warnings if new fires begin
Mitigating Factors to Apply:
Remain vigilant to rapidly changing situations and make travel adjustments as you see fit
Heed any evacuation warnings
Monitor local news and weather media for updates
Allow extra time for travel
Avoid traveling through areas with reduced visibility
Keep electronics charged
Enroll in Safe Traveler Program from your preferred embassy to receive alerts
DISCLAIMER and Hold Harmless
Disclaimer: LSDS gathers information from multiple sources and offers insight and perspective to travelers. Sources cannot be validated for accuracy in every instance. Travelers assume all risk associated with their travel and are responsible for the decisions associated with travel and for their own safety. Users of this reference document agree, to hold harmless LSDS (LLC) its employees and clients associated with any risk or injury incurred during travel.
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