**Firefighters in Tijuana on High Alert Amid Rising Temperatures and Increased Fire Incidents**
Tijuana—With rising temperatures over the next few days, the Tijuana Fire Department is on high alert due to an increase in forest fires, stated Rafael Carrillo Venegas, head of the department.
“Although temperatures are not expected to be as high as they were about a week and a half ago, we must remain vigilant. Our alert for forest fires remains active,” he said.
Between September 6 and 9, some areas of Tijuana recorded temperatures as high as 39 degrees Celsius. This heatwave contributed to a 42 percent increase in forest fires, affecting homes and other properties. Emergency calls rose from an average of 65 daily to 110 during these days.
Carrillo Venegas noted that they are also preparing for the Santa Ana wind season, expected to start in October, which could further increase the number of forest and interface fires.
“Extreme conditions are on the way, with more heat and lower humidity, making the climate very dry and prone to fires. Strong winds will also contribute to this risk. Where fires start, they spread rapidly due to these weather conditions,” he explained.
The fire chief advised citizens to keep their homes and surroundings clean to prevent the spread of fires. “During Santa Ana conditions, fire incidents can double. Therefore, we recommend keeping vegetation and trash out of the surroundings to minimize fire risks,” he added.
**Additional News: Increased Fire Risk and Air Quality Concerns in Tijuana**
In related news, the recent rise in forest fires has significantly impacted air quality in Tijuana. The surge in fire incidents is primarily attributed to high temperatures and strong winds. Forest fires have not only destroyed property but also led to poor air quality, posing health risks to residents.
Public health officials urge citizens to take necessary precautions, such as staying indoors when air quality is poor and using air purifiers. Additionally, the Tijuana Fire Department continues to receive a higher volume of emergency calls, emphasizing the need for community awareness and preparedness in dealing with fire hazards.
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