Firefighters worked over the weekend to corral the Border 2 Fire, which has spread over some 10 square miles of remote terrain a few miles north of the U.S.-Mexico border.
As of Sunday morning, the fire remains just 10% contained.
The blaze, which began just west of Doghouse Junction in the Otay Mountain Wilderness Area, had blackened an estimated 6,625 acres by Saturday afternoon, according to Cal Fire.
It had shown only slight growth since the morning, however, a hopeful sign as a storm system moves into San Diego County with the promise of some relief for fire crews.
In the meantime, at least 2,169 structures remained under threaten, officials said, with evacuation orders still in place and warnings extending into Chula Vista.
“Fire activity continued overnight, burning in steep terrain with very low humidity and shifting winds. The fire continues to threaten homes, communities and infrastructure, but air and ground resources are working day and night to ensure the safety of residents and property.” Cal Fire officials said in a statement.
Crews looked forward, though, to the rain that is expected to ease fire activity late Saturday through Monday, “helping firefighters increase containment.”
The fire, which began Thursday afternoon, prompted closures of Otay Lakes Road and Wueste to state Route 94 and state Route 94 from Honey Springs to state Route 188.
A temporary evacuation point was set up at Southwestern College, 900 Otay Lakes Road in Chula Vista.
Cuyamaca College, 900 Rancho San Diego Parkway, in El Cajon, was open to evacuated residents and their small animals. Large animals were being sent to 5821 Sweet Water Road in Bonita.
Some 1,177 personnel have been assigned to the fire, along with 90 engines and 12 helicopters.
The San Diego County Sheriff’s Office also announced that due to improved conditions near Otay Mesa detention facilities, jail visits will resume at 8 a.m. Sunday.
Numerous agencies are aiding CalFire on the Border2 Fire, including the the Sheriff’s Office, San Diego County OES, the Chula Vista fire and police departments, Caltrans, San Diego Fire Department, American Red Cross and San Diego Gas & Electric.
Federal agencies supporting the effort include the Bureau of Land Management, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and U.S. Geological Survey.
The cause of the fire is under investigation.
– City News Service
Updated 3:10 p.m. Jan. 25, 2025
