26 Oct 2019 | 04:54 AM UTC
Mexico: Bushfires break out in Baja California October 25
Multiple bushfires in Baja California result in at least four fatalities as of October 25; associated transportation disruptions reported
Event
Wildfires are ongoing in multiple areas of Baja California state as of the evening (local time) of Friday, October 25, including in Tecate, Tijuana, Ensenada, and Playas de Rosarito. According to media reports, at least four fatalities have been confirmed and multiple homes have been damaged or destroyed. The fire near Tecate has burned over 35,000 acres (14,200 hectares). Officials temporarily closed the highway near Ensenada and over 1600 people have been evacuated in the region. Schools were also shut on Friday in Tijuana, Playas de Rosarito, and Tecate as a precaution.
Further spread of the fires is possible over the coming days. Associated road closures, power outages, and business disruptions are anticipated in the vicinity of the wildfire and evacuation zones.
Advice
Individuals in Baja California state are advised to monitor developments to the situation, adhere to instructions issued by local authorities (e.g. evacuation notices, road closures), and exercise caution when traveling near the wildfire. Children and those with respiratory illness are advised to limit outdoor activity.
