Baja California Weather Alert: Brace for Strong Winds, Choppy Seas, and Cooler Days

Baja California kicked off the week with some challenging weather, according to the latest CONAGUA update. Two cold fronts are barreling in from the northwest and north, mixing with the subtropical jet stream to bring intense winds, rough seas, and scattered showers across the region.

Expect wind gusts between 50 and 70 km/h across both Baja California and Baja California Sur—strong enough to whip up dust clouds and reduce visibility on the roads and in the skies. The west coast will see waves between 1 and 3 meters, posing a risk for smaller boats.

Here’s a quick rundown of what to expect in key spots:

• Tijuana: Partly cloudy with light rains during the day, and thunderstorms in the early morning. Temperatures will hover between 13°C and 17°C, with NW winds reaching up to 30 km/h at night.

• Mexicali: Overcast skies with temperatures ranging from 18°C to 29°C. Strong west winds could hit 56 km/h in the afternoon.

• Ensenada: Expect intermittent clouds with light rain, with temps from 14°C to 20°C and west winds up to 30 km/h.

• Tecate: Cloudy with heavy showers, temperatures between 10°C and 16°C, and winds around 38 km/h.

• La Rumorosa: Partly cloudy with light rain by day turning into thunderstorms later; temperatures between 8°C and 15°C with SW winds gusting up to 79 km/h at night.

• Rosarito: Similar to Tijuana, light rain with occasional early-morning thunderstorms, temperatures between 14°C and 16°C, and winds up to 29 km/h.

• San Quintín: Partly cloudy with temperatures from 12°C to 22°C and winds between 30 and 54 km/h.

• San Felipe: A mix of sun and clouds, temperatures ranging from 18°C to 24°C, and SE winds between 23 and 39 km/h.

• San Pedro Mártir: Partly cloudy skies with temperatures from 7°C to 20°C and winds up to 55 km/h.

Residents are advised to take extra precautions, whether you’re on the road or at sea. Stay safe out there, Baja!

Massive Fuel Seizure in Ensenada: Authorities Confiscate Nearly 2.1 Million Gallons of Stolen Gasoline

In one of the largest fuel busts in recent history, authorities confiscated nearly 2.1 million gallons of stolen gasoline in Ensenada, Baja California. The operation, carried out on March 27 but announced the following day, stemmed from a citizen tip-off about suspicious activity at a property along the Rosarito-Ensenada highway, near El Sauzal.

The raid was a coordinated effort involving the Army (Sedena), the National Guard, the Navy, the Federal Attorney General’s Office (FGR), and Pemex security teams. Armed with a search warrant, officials stormed the site and discovered an illegal fuel storage operation that included:

• 100 container boxes, each capable of holding 19,250 gallons.

• 46 tanker trailers, each carrying 8,200 gallons.

• 19 semi-trucks of different models.

• 12 fuel pumps of various capacities.

• 2 office trailers.

• A cistern with 1,050 gallons of urea.

The total fuel seizure was estimated at 2,098,000 gallons—enough to fill more than 120,000 average car fuel tanks. Authorities placed the vehicles, containers, and gasoline under federal custody while investigations continue to determine its origin and identify those responsible.

Local reports have linked the property to former senator Gerardo Novelo Osuna, though officials have yet to confirm his direct involvement.

Fuel theft, or “huachicoleo,” has been a massive issue in Mexico, costing billions in losses. This operation is proof that even when justice seems unlikely, it has a way of showing up. Hopefully, it’s another step toward cleaning house.

A Shell of a Good Time: The Conchas & Wine Festival Turns 25!

If you ever needed an excuse to sip world-class wine while slurping fresh oysters by the sea, here it is: The XXV Festival de las Conchas y el Vino Nuevo is back from April 10–13 in Ensenada, and this year, it’s bigger, bolder, and brinier than ever. 

For 25 years, this festival has been the place where Baja California’s wine, seafood, and culinary magic come together in one glorious weekend of indulgence. Hosted by Provino Baja California, it brings together top-tier winemakers, chefs, and seafood producers, showcasing the best local shellfish and the freshest new wines from the region. This is not your average “grab a glass and a snack” kind of affair—this is four days of seafood feasting and wine swirling at its finest. 

The festival opens with the XVI Taller de Conchas (April 10-11), a deep dive into all things seafood. If you’ve ever wanted to hear marine biologists, aquaculture pros, and chefs discuss oyster farming, mollusk sustainability, and the future of Baja’s seafood industry—this is your jam. Even if you don’t understand half of what’s being said, it’s still a great way to appreciate where your fancy seafood dinner comes from. 

Next up is the IX Salón del Vino (April 11), where 70 wineries will be showing off their latest and greatest. This exclusive business-to-business event is where winemakers and distributors strike deals and introduce their newest creations to the world. It’s like speed dating, but for wine. 

Then, things get serious on April 12 with Mesas Marinas, an ultra-exclusive seafood and wine experience. Picture this: 15 oceanfront tables, each seating 20 guests, with a personal chef, winemaker, and shellfish producer catering to your every need. You’ll get a four-course meal featuring Baja’s finest oysters, clams, mussels, and abalone, paired with the best white and sparkling wines in the region. Chefs from as far as Peru, the U.S., Mexico City, and beyond will be on hand to create unforgettable seafood dishes—and trust us, this is the kind of meal you’ll be talking about for years. 

And then, the main event: The XXV Festival de las Conchas y el Vino Nuevo on April 13 at the Hotel Coral & Marina. This grand celebration brings together 80 wineries, over 50 restaurants, and thousands of seafood lovers for a day of pure indulgence. Expect an all-you-can-taste experience featuring fresh oysters, mussels, clams, and more, alongside over 160 labels of wine, most of them crisp whites, delicate rosés, and elegant sparkling wines. 

Oh, and let’s not forget the oyster-shucking contest, the chef-led “marina island” where you’ll get to taste seafood rice and pasta dishes, and a cooking demonstration zone for those who like their food with a side of education. 

Don’t Miss It! The Festival de las Conchas y el Vino Nuevo isn’t just a food and wine festival—it’s a celebration of Baja’s rich culinary culture, a place where the region’s best flavors, traditions, and talent shine. And if you’re wondering whether it’s worth the ticket price, just remember: 3.5 tons of shellfish, 4,182 bottles of wine, and 25,000 gourmet tastings don’t lie. 

Get your tickets before they’re gone: tienda.clubprovino.mx

Valle de Guadalupe Film Festival to Honor Mexican Filmmaker Alfonso Arau

Lights, camera, action! The first edition of the Valle de Guadalupe Film Festival is kicking off with a well-deserved tribute to renowned Mexican filmmaker Alfonso Arau. Known for directing hits like A Walk in the Clouds (starring Keanu Reeves), Zapata: The Dream of a Hero, and the iconic Like Water for Chocolate, Arau has made a lasting impact on Mexican cinema. This special homage will take place on Friday, September 20, at 5:30 PM at the Museo de la Vid y el Vino. 

Arau also holds the unique distinction of being the first to direct famed American director Woody Allen in the film Picking Up the Pieces. Intrigued?

You can learn more fascinating details like this at the film discussion led by critic Ernesto Diezmartínez, starting at 6:00 PM right after the tribute. Following this, the visual artist Julio Orozco will unveil his exhibition “Halls of the Past, Projections of the Future” at 7:00 PM.

To round off the festival’s opening day, there will be a concert of “Great Works of the Seventh Art” performed by the Wind Quintet of the Baja California Orchestra at 8:30 PM. And if that’s not enough, stick around for the video mapping presentation “Libélula” at 10:00 PM.

Best of all? Admission to all these activities is free! The festivities start on Friday, September 20, at 5:30 PM at the Museo de la Vid y el Vino in Valle de Guadalupe. The museum is located at Carr. Fed. Tecate-Ensenada Km 81.3371 Fracc. Norte, 22750 Francisco Zarco, B.C.

For the full festival program, visit: https://festivaldecinevalleguadalupe.com

The 2nd Baja Women’s Conference is Here to Save Your Sanity: Ready to Recharge?

Ladies of Baja, it’s time to dust off your best yoga pants and get ready for a day that’s all about you—no kids, no partners, no to-do lists. Just you, a bunch of like-minded women, and an agenda that’s all about recharging those life batteries. 

Mark your calendars for Saturday, September 21st, because from 8:30 AM to 4:00 PM, the Second Baja Women’s Conference is taking over CEART in Rosarito. Think of it as a spa day for the soul, but with more chakras, a splash of creativity, and a side of salsa—yes, dancing, not the dip.

This isn’t your average conference where you nod off after too much coffee. No, this is a day designed to make you feel like the rockstar you are. Whether you’re looking to rediscover your creative side, sort out your chakras, or just want to have a comfortable chat about sex (because, why not?), there’s something here for everyone.

Sessions will be offered in English, Spanish, and even a bit of Spanglish because we know you’ve got that bilingual game down. Here’s just a taste of what’s on the menu:

Bilingual Sessions: Start your day with Gloria Snyder’s “Women’s Circle,” where you’ll find and strengthen your voice in life, speech, and even song with Carol Clary’s “Find and Strengthen Your Voice in Life, Speech, and Song.” If you’re in need of some serious zen, don’t miss Rose Lee’s “Chakras, Reiki, Singing Bowls.”

English Sessions: Things get spicy with Sherri Jaye’s “A Comfortable Chat on Sex,” where nothing’s off-limits. On the more holistic side, Winifred Morice will dive into “Nutrition: Wellness is an Inside Job,” while Sue McDevitt explores the “Role of Creativity in Self Care.”

For those of you who’ve been carrying the weight of the world, Alice Vernoux’s “Female Myth of Servitude: Reframing the Caretaker Role” is a must-attend. Heal through art with Shauna Robeson’s “Healing Art Therapy,” and learn how to stock a pantry that would make any nutritionist proud with Karen Schuppert’s “Building a Healthy Pantry.” 

If you’ve got some thoughts about your end-of-life plans but haven’t quite put them on paper, Marti and Karri Benjamin will guide you through “Making Your End-of-Life Wishes Known.”  Stress got you down? Maria Denzin will help you balance it all out in “Stress and Creating Balance.” Suzanne Mulroy takes a deep dive into what it means to be truly healthy in “Rethinking Dis-ease and What it Means to Be Healthy.” Marti Benjamin returns with “Flourish: The Science of Well-being,” and if you’ve got some old wounds that need tending, Elizabeth Bello’s “Transforming Trauma to Passion” will show you how to turn that pain into power.

And let’s not forget the often-ignored but totally important topic of menopause and andropause—Dr. Gloria Godinez has you covered in “Menopause and Andropause.”

Spanish Sessions: For our Spanish-speaking sisters, Dra. Gloria Godinez will also be discussing “Entendiendo la Menopausia y la Andropausia,” while Dra. Neblina Ninel Vega Salazar will explore “La Otra Cara de la Depresión.” If you’ve been carrying childhood baggage, Lic. Claudia Araujo’s “Sanando a Tu Niña Interior” is where you need to be. Creativity doesn’t just have to be in English—Sue McDevitt’s “El Papel de la Creatividad en el Autocuidado” will be offered en español as well. 

Gloria Snyder returns with “El Poder de tu Palabra,” a session that will have you owning your voice in no time. And for those looking to reclaim their power, Dra. Elvia Moreno Berry’s “Mujeres y Empoderamiento” and Nina Raffaele Aponte’s “Empoderamiento de la Nutrición Holística” will be essential stops on your conference journey.

But wait, there’s more! The day wraps up with a salsa dancing lesson from the fabulous Gabriela López Arnaut. So, not only will you leave with a recharged mind and spirit, but you’ll also have some new moves to show off at your next fiesta.

Why Should You Care? 

Let’s be real. Life gets hectic. Between work, family, and the occasional meltdown over where to put the avocado toast on the food pyramid, we all need a day to step back and focus on number one: YOU. The Baja Women’s Conference is your golden ticket to do just that. You’ll leave feeling refreshed, motivated, and maybe even a little bit wiser—or at least with a better pantry.

And hey, it’s not just about the sessions. It’s about connecting with other women who get it, who’ve been there, done that, and might even have the T-shirt. This is your tribe, and they’re waiting to meet you.

Tickets are going fast (because who wouldn’t want in on this?), so grab yours online for $65.00. If you’re more of a last-minute planner, they’re $75.00 at the door. Head over to Baja Women’s Conference Website for all the details, session info, and to snag your ticket before they’re gone.

And let’s not forget to give a shoutout to the conference’s advertising sponsor, The Shack Sports Bar and Grill, because nothing says “women’s empowerment” like knowing where to grab a cold one after a day of self-care.

So, whether you’re looking to strengthen your voice, balance your chakras, or just have a good laugh while learning a thing or two, the Second Baja Women’s Conference is where you need to be. This isn’t just an event—it’s an investment in yourself. And let’s face it, you’re worth it.

Don’t miss out on this chance to recharge, refocus, and maybe even learn how to dance like nobody’s watching (but if they are, you’ll be ready). See you there, chicas!

Baja California Braces for Scorching Temperatures This Weekend

Baja California’s Civil Protection authorities have issued a heat advisory for the upcoming weekend, warning of significantly higher temperatures across the region. Residents are being urged to take precautions and stay safe as the heatwave rolls in.

According to the forecast, Mexicali is set to hit a scorching 47°C, while Tijuana may reach 41°C. Other areas like Tecate, Playas de Rosarito, Ensenada, San Quintín, and San Felipe are also expected to see high temperatures, ranging from 32°C to 40°C.

Officials are advising residents to limit outdoor activities, stay hydrated, and seek cool, shaded places whenever possible. For those who must be outdoors, it’s crucial to take extra precautions like wearing lightweight clothing and carrying water.

In case of an emergency, residents should call 911 or contact local authorities.

Stay safe, Baja California! This weekend’s heat is no joke, and it’s best to be prepared.

New Tourist Marina Set to Transform Ensenada’s Port Area

Get Ready for “Ventana al Mar”: Ensenada’s Shiny New Waterfront Gem

The Ensenada port is getting a fabulous makeover, folks! The National Port System Administration (Asipona) has announced an exciting new project: a state-of-the-art tourist marina called “Ventana al Mar.” This marina isn’t just about docking boats; it’s a whole experience with fuel stations, restaurants, commercial areas, and much more.

Covering an impressive 12,000 square meters of prime maritime real estate right next to the current cruise terminal, “Ventana al Mar” promises to be a bustling hub for both locals and tourists. The marina will be leased for 19 years with an option to renew for another 19, making it a long-term fixture in Ensenada’s waterfront.

Think of “Ventana al Mar” as more than just a marina. It’s set to offer a range of services including public port services for recreational and sports boats, specialized operations like embarkation and disembarkation, rope mooring, in-water repairs, and supply services (water, fuel, internet, and waste collection). There will also be diving services, maritime inspections, and a vibrant commercial area with restaurants and shops.

To be part of this grand project, participants (whether individuals or companies, Mexican or foreign) need to show they have at least 25 million pesos in assets. The leaseholder will pay Asipona an initial fee, a fixed annual fee, and a variable fee based on income from services provided in the area. If you’re interested, you need to buy the bidding documents by June 11, 2024, for a cool 200,000 pesos. Proposals will be reviewed on October 30, 2024.

Asipona will evaluate proposals based on technical criteria and the highest initial fee offered. In the event of a tie, the winner will be the one promising the highest investment in the marina’s construction and equipment before it opens.

This project, detailed in the official federal gazette on May 28, is spearheaded by Vice Admiral Joel Sandoval Gómez, the head of Asipona Ensenada.

Get Ready for the Roar on the Shore! The Baja 500 is Here

The Baja California Peninsula is revving up for the much-anticipated Baja 500 off-road race, a rugged, adrenaline-pumping event set from May 29 to June 2, 2024. This wild race will roar through the landscapes of Ensenada, starting and ending right by the cultural hotspot, the Riviera del Pacífico.

For those looking to catch the action up close, there are designated viewing areas along the route which promise great visibility without compromising safety. These spots are perfect for fans who want to experience the thunderous excitement of engines and the gritty determination of the racers.

Safety is a top priority, with Baja California’s Civil Protection issuing guidelines to ensure everyone enjoys the event safely. They’ve advised spectators to keep at a safe distance from the race path, stay hydrated, and use sun protection during the sunny race days.

Ensenada’s downtown area will feel the race’s pulse too, with several roads, including sections of the Bulevar Costero, temporarily closed to manage the race and ensure smooth operations from start to finish.

With the support of various organizations and local government, the Baja 500 not only promises high-octane excitement but also boosts local tourism and business. It’s not just a race; it’s a celebration of motorsport culture, right in the heart of Baja California!

Arena Valle de Guadalupe Opens Its Doors with a Bang!

Get ready, music lovers! The brand-new Arena Valle de Guadalupe is set to become Baja California’s premier entertainment hub, boasting a capacity of 10,000 and promising top-tier events. Although the arena is still a work in progress, the venue opened its doors to the press for an exclusive tour on May 16th, revealing its impressive architecture and design, all set against the stunning backdrop of the wine valley.

The grand opening concert will be headlined by none other than Christian Nodal on May 26th, marking the first of many spectacular events. Following Nodal, a star-studded lineup awaits: Carín León on June 8th, Ricky Martin on June 21st, Banda MS on June 22nd, and Los Aguilar on July 27th. And that’s just the beginning!

Nelly Sanoja, the arena’s representative, highlighted the venue’s modern yet regionally respectful design. Equipped with nearly 300 restrooms, 3,000 parking spaces, and advanced security systems, Arena Valle de Guadalupe is ready to welcome both national and international visitors. The venue also prides itself on its eco-friendly construction, featuring its own power substation and septic systems, and ensuring accessibility for all guests.

Photo courtesy of Alejandro Zepeda

Ricky Martin’s concert on June 21st is particularly anticipated, as he will be the first international artist to grace the new arena’s stage. Fans can expect a phenomenal show with Ricky’s greatest hits, including “Livin’ la Vida Loca” and “She Bangs” enhanced by a full symphony orchestra. Tickets range from 2,000 to 10,000 pesos, promising a high-quality visual and auditory experience.

Marco Santalices from InHouse, the production company behind the arena, assured that while a few final touches are still being made, the venue will be fully ready for Nodal’s concert. The arena’s long-term strategy already includes bookings up to 2025, big names like J.Lo, Michael Bublé, Andrea Bocelli, Raw Alejandro, and Maluma are already being mentioned while Luis Miguel is said to be already confirmed to perform, with the date to be announced soon.

Mark your calendars, grab your tickets, and get ready to experience world-class performances in the heart of Valle de Guadalupe!

Ensenada Navy Conducts Medical Evacuation from Cruise Ship

The Mexican Navy, operating through its Coast Guard duties, successfully carried out a medical evacuation in recent days. This operation was executed by personnel from the Naval Station for Search, Rescue, and Maritime Surveillance (ENSAR) in Ensenada, which is part of the Second Naval Region.

The rescue mission commenced following a report to the Navy Command Control Center about a 70-year-old foreign national exhibiting symptoms of a myocardial infarction aboard a cruise ship south of Ensenada, B.C.

To ensure the safety and well-being of the individual, the Navy dispatched a MLB-type vessel equipped with Naval Health personnel to securely transport the patient to the naval facilities. Upon arrival at a safe port, the individual was transferred to an ambulance and subsequently taken to a local hospital for specialized medical care.

The Second Naval Region reminds the public that in maritime emergencies, they can contact their hotline at (646)-177-38-30. Additionally, the Secretary of the Navy provides a contact number: 800 MARINA (800-627-46-21) for further assistance.

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