Wildfire Burns Large Swath of Otay Mountain Wilderness

A fast-moving wildfire dubbed the Border 2 Fire continues to burn in the Otay Mountains of southern San Diego, prompting officials to close roads, recreation areas, and multiple public facilities. The blaze, which has already scorched roughly 6500 acres since it started Thursday, sends thick smoke across southern San Diego County and affects air quality in neighboring communities. As I’m writing this, the fire is only 10% contained.

The area is home to the popular Otay Mountain Truck Trail, and the fire looks to have burned portions of the wilderness surrounding the trail’s western branch.
Road & Recreation Closures
- Alta Road near Otay Mesa Road
- Otay Lakes Road, from Wueste Road to Pio Pico Campground
- Both directions of State Route 94 at Otay Lakes Road
- Lower and Upper Otay Reservoirs, closed by the City of San Diego through at least Sunday
Chula Vista officials have also shut down parks and recreation centers east of Interstate 805 due to poor air quality, including Parkway Pool, Loma Verde Pool, and Otay Ranch Library.
Evacuation orders remain in place for several zones around the fire. Officials urge everyone to stay clear of closed roads, follow evacuation notices, and remain alert to further changes in air quality. Updates can be found on CAL FIRE’s incident page and through local emergency services. The app Watch Duty is also helpful for tracking fires.