Breaking News

Baja’s Moving… in Its Own Way
 Articles, Breaking News, Ensenada, San Diego, Tijuana

Baja’s New Ferry Waits, Tijuana’s Viaduct Shrinks—Progress, Baja Style

Baja California is on the move… sort of. Ensenada has a shiny new ferry sitting pretty at the dock. Tijuana’s long-promised viaduct is, well, shorter than promised. It’s progress—just not the fast-lane kind.

Ferry Fantasy Meets Dockside Reality

The Azteca Express I made its grand entrance into Ensenada’s port on July 25. Locals cheered, phones snapped, and Instagram lit up. But anyone hoping to hop on for San Diego this week is in for a plot twist—the first passenger trip won’t be until late August.

Phase one will carry people only—no cars until next year—but it will have a bar on board. Because priorities. It’ll seat about 230 passengers and take 2.5 to 3 hours each way.

Tickets aren’t on sale yet, but early chatter points to $70 USD one-way or around $130 USD round trip. The experience promises full customs and immigration checks at both ends—think “airport with a sea breeze.”

The San Diego–Ensenada ferry arrived on July 25 with room for 330 passengers, but no launch date or tickets are available yet. Here’s everything we know so far.
#The San Diego–Ensenada ferry arrived on July 25 with room for 330 passengers, but no launch date or tickets are available yet. Here’s everything we know so far.

Viaduct Loses the Beach

Meanwhile, in Tijuana, the Viaducto Elevado—that elevated road designed to whisk drivers from the airport toward Playas—has officially been downsized. The new plan ends the road at Cañón del Matadero, about 1.5 kilometers short of the beach.

The change trims the original 10.5-kilometer project and cuts Playas de Tijuana out of the direct link. Local residents worry this will dump traffic into their neighborhoods and worsen the rush. Officials say the viaduct is still on track to open late 2025 or early 2026.

Same Goal, Different Routes

In a way, both projects have the same mission—make it easier to move people and goods in and out of Baja. But like a good Baja road trip, there are always detours.

The ferry is stuck in “coming soon” mode. The viaduct is trimming its route. Neither is a total win yet, but each inch forward matters for a region that relies on cross-border travel like fish rely on water.

We’ll take the progress, even if it comes in small, slightly salty steps.

Viaduct in Action
#Workers and machines hustle under the sun, assembling what might just be the fastest road Tijuana has never seen… yet.

Quick Facts:

ProjectStatusETAFun Fact
Ensenada–SD FerryDocked, delayedLate August 2025Has a bar before it has car space
Tijuana ViaductRoute shortenedLate 2025/Early 2026Lost the beach but kept the traffic

Baja’s building momentum—just not at the speed locals (or drivers) might hope for. But hey, at least we’re not bored.

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Listen to The Deep Dive, our new podcast with real news, sarcasm, and no bad news—unless it’s funny. Quick episodes made for multitasking. Subscribe now!
 Articles, Baja Norte, Breaking News

Turn Up the Fun: GGNorth Now Has a Podcast

Subscribe now to The Deep Dive podcast by GGNorth

Reading is great—until you’re flipping tortillas, walking the dog, or forgot your glasses again. So, we made listening an option.

Say hello to The Deep Dive, the new audio spin-off from Gringo Gazette North. It’s still us, just louder—and hands-free.

The brains behind it? Luisa Rosas-Hernández (yes, that Luisa—the one who writes all this) and Oliver Quintero, our publisher and chaos coordinator.

The subjects? Based on Luisa’s original articles, crafted into quick audio episodes with our signature style.

We kicked things off Tuesday with “Margaritas, Music & Mat Time: Ensenada’s 77th Party”. Missed it? Don’t worry—episode two just dropped. We keep things moving around here.

Now, you can stay informed without putting down your spatula or opening a laptop. Whether you’re on the road, cooking dinner, or pretending to be busy, we’ve got you covered.

Also, if a topic grabs your attention, you can find the full article on our website—or follow us on social media.

  • ✅ Real news
  • ✅ Sarcasm included
  • ✅ No bad news (unless it’s hilarious)

We made this for our loyal readers—and all the curious souls who found us while waiting at the DMV.

🎧 Click here to listen and subscribe before your margarita melts.

No Bad News. Unless It Matters. Or It’s Funny.

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Detour Route (in yellow):
 Breaking News, Tijuana

Heads Up Drivers: Detour Ahead on the Way to Rosarito

Partial Closure Hits Key Tijuana Bypass This Week

If your plans this week involve cruising down to Rosarito, better map out a new route.

Starting Saturday, August 2 through Wednesday, August 7, a portion of Boulevard Cuauhtémoc Sur, near Nodo Morelos, will be partially closed. The cause? The state is finally fixing a damaged concrete slab that’s been bumping everyone around for a while.

Arturo Espinoza Jaramillo, Baja’s head of Infrastructure and Urban Development (SIDURT), said the repairs require closing the exit ramp from Libramiento Salvador Rosas Magallón that heads toward Playas de Rosarito.

Before you shout ¡no mames!, there’s a workaround.

SIDURT recommends this scenic little detour:

  • Use the three ramps of Nodo Morelos to hop onto Boulevard Cuauhtémoc Sur but head toward downtown Tijuana.
  • Then, take the ramp to Libramiento Rosas Magallón in the Playas de Tijuana direction.
  • Finally, take the last ramp to get back onto Boulevard Cuauhtémoc Sur heading south to Rosarito.

Yep—it’s a mini roller coaster, but it’ll get you there.

Important note: This closure has nothing to do with the recently built Nodo Morelos bridge, which is still standing tall and flowing smoothly with over 100,000 vehicles per day.

The real reason? Just wear and tear.

SIDURT is asking drivers to be extra careful: follow speed limits, respect warning signs, and brace for possible congestion. The smoother ride after August 7 should make up for the temporary headache.

Heading out of town? Maybe leave five minutes early, bring a good playlist, and skip the road rage. After all, this is Baja. You’ll get there—with a taco in hand and sand between your toes.

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Baja on Watch, But No Need to Panic
 Breaking News, International, Security, Video

Tsunami Advisory Hits Pacific—Baja on Watch, But No Need to Panic

Baja California México – July 29 and 30, 2025. A massive 8.7 magnitude earthquake off Russia’s east coast triggered tsunami alerts across the Pacific, including a Naval Tsunami Advisory (CAT‑SEMAR) for parts of Baja California. But here’s the real scoop: no evacuations, no panic—just a heads-up.

The advisory covers coastal areas from Ensenada down to Baja California Sur, including San Felipe, Playas de Rosarito, Tijuana, and San Quintín. According to CAT-SEMAR, wave heights are expected between 0.3 and 1.0 meters—that’s about knee-deep for most folks. It’s considered a sea surge, not a full-blown tsunami.

The U.S. National Weather Service also issued alerts for Hawai‘i and parts of Alaska, with Japan monitoring its Pacific coast. But again—no evacuations have been ordered anywhere in Mexico.

So, is this serious? Yes. Is it dangerous for Baja right now? Not likely. The Mexican Navy recommends staying off the beach, avoiding small boats, and watching for unusual sea activity between the afternoon and evening hours.

What Baja Residents Should Do

Action StepWhy It Matters
Stay away from beaches and waterfrontsEven small surges can generate dangerous currents
Follow official updates onlyAvoid panic from viral but inaccurate posts
Monitor port traffic announcementsCoordinated shifts may occur overnight
Be cautious of shipping or waves in harborsSudden sea movements could reach 1 m or more

What This Means for Baja Locals

While headlines sound dramatic, Baja’s coastal towns are used to nature putting on a show. Local emergency services are monitoring the situation. There’s no disruption to transportation, and all border crossings remain open.

If you’re in San Felipe, Rosarito, or along the Ensenada coast, it’s a good time to skip your paddleboard session—but don’t cancel dinner plans. Just keep your eyes on updates from Protección Civil, CAT‑SEMAR, or X (formerly Twitter) accounts from Baja’s civil defense agencies.

And don’t worry, Estero Beach is still standing—but maybe order that margarita a bit further from the shore today.

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Provino Speaks Out on El Sauzal Port Project Concerns
 Breaking News

Provino: Port Growth Without Urban Planning Is a Risky Pairing

PROVINO isn’t saying no—but they are definitely saying “not like this.”

One week after more than 11,800 locals signed a petition slamming the proposed mega-port in El Sauzal (yep, this one), Baja California’s prestigious wine industry has officially weighed in—with a polite but firm swirl of the glass.

In a statement released late Thursday night, PROVINO Baja California, the committee representing over 80 wineries in the region, expressed serious concerns—not necessarily about the port itself, but about the complete lack of mobility planning, land-use regulation, or public consultation surrounding the project.

“The development of an industrial zone near a major tourism corridor demands public policies on mobility, territorial regulation, and citizen input,” they wrote.

#Provino Warns: Port Expansion Needs Mobility & Land Use Plans

Translation: They’re not anti-port. They’re anti-“let’s wing it and hope for the best.”

Why this matters

The wine industry isn’t just about sipping on weekends—it’s an economic engine. Events like the Fiestas de la Vendimia attract thousands of tourists, inject millions of pesos into the economy, and shape the global image of Baja wine country.

PROVINO emphasized that the port’s planning lacks transparency and called on the government to release all technical, environmental, and social impact studies. They’re not opposing development outright—but they want it to be smart, sustainable, and community-aware.

Meanwhile, in El Sauzal…

Residents are still waiting for clear answers. The online petition grows daily, and now with PROVINO joining the dialogue, the project faces even more scrutiny—especially from those who know a thing or two about protecting terroir.

Bottom line?

Baja’s wine leaders just told the government: you can’t bulldoze your way through paradise. If there’s going to be a port, it better come with a plan. And maybe a toast to transparency.

🍷 Stay tuned.

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Trapped, Sick, Forgotten: Ensenada’s 300 Dogs Find Hope
 Articles, Breaking News, Humane Society

300 Rescued Dogs and a Shelter’s Dirty Secret in Ensenada

Neighbors Knew Something Was Wrong

Since 2021, locals near a dog shelter in Ensenada had been complaining. They said something smelled bad—literally and figuratively. They weren’t wrong.

In July 2025, things finally came to a head. A multi-agency raid exposed what may be one of the worst shelter scandals Baja has seen. And yes, it’s exactly as bad as it sounds.

We’ve always backed animal groups. We’ve covered rescue stories and wagged tails across these pages. But when a rescue turns into a rotting kennel of disease and death, it’s time to stop applauding and start reporting.

The Shelter That Hid a Horror

The shelter, Ellos son la Razón (“They Are the Reason”), operated for years without a license, vet, or basic hygiene. In 2023, shocking photos led the city to shut it down—briefly. Still, dogs kept coming, and the problems stacked up.

The director, Keila Rodríguez, said many dogs arrived already sick. That may be true, but by July 2025, it was clear no one was getting better inside those walls.

The Raid That Changed Everything

Between July 5 and 6, a court-approved raid led by Baja’s Prosecutor’s Office and the city of Ensenada uncovered the truth: 300 dogs packed into small, filthy rooms. Some rooms held up to 35 animals. There was no clean water, no drainage, and plenty of fleas, feces, and rotting remains.

Veterinarians found cases of distemper, mange, transmissible tumors, and cancer. Some dogs were too far gone. They had to be euthanized. Others were treated immediately and transferred to real clinics.

Rescue, Treatment, and Real Help

Municipal and state vets stepped in fast. Norma Olimpia Guerrero and Wilber Agumada Torres led medical evaluations. With help from certified shelters, they began treatment, rehab, and a plan to rehome the dogs responsibly.

Governor Marina del Pilar Ávila backed the effort and promised tighter shelter regulations in Baja. The city pledged ongoing support—meds, food, vet teams, and transport.

It wasn’t just a clean-up. It was a full system reboot.

300 Rescued Dogs and a Shelter’s Dirty Secret in Ensenada
00 dogs packed into small, filthy rooms
Veterinarians found cases

Legal Action and What’s Next

Two investigations are now open—one from mid-2024 and one from this July. While no arrests have been made yet, authorities issued penalties and are preparing further charges.

The case is already changing how Baja thinks about animal protection. Officials are working on stricter rules, regular inspections, and real accountability for shelters.

Want to Help? You Can.

If this story breaks your heart, good. That means you’re human. And you can help.

The rescued dogs are currently under the care of government-led veterinary teams and are being assessed for relocation. While they are not being housed by independent shelters, you can still support the work of permitted and trustworthy rescue groups like Los Adoptables, Guillermina’s Sanctuary, 4 Patas, and Ayudando a los Animales—who continue rescuing and caring for animals across Ensenada.

If you’re thinking of donating, in-kind support is always best. Shelters often need food, medicine, cleaning supplies, and blankets more than anything.

Pro tip: Ask questions. Visit in person. If the place avoids showing you the kennels—run.

You can also check Petfinder for adoptable pets near Ensenada or contact the Centro de Atención Animal for verified information.

The Ruff Reality

Good intentions aren’t enough. Rescue means care, structure, and vet support—not just stacked cages and forgotten animals.

This shelter claimed the dogs were “the reason.” And you know what? They still are.

But now, thanks to loud neighbors, brave vets, and some much-needed pressure, these dogs finally have a reason to hope.

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Courtesy of the event organizers
 Breaking News, Ensenada

Experience Democracy in Action at Ensenada’s Rally This Saturday

📍Ensenada, Baja California — Saturday, June 14, 2025

We recently received a note from Anne Porter, a member of Democrats Abroad in Baja, letting us know about a peaceful rally happening this Saturday in Ensenada. It’s called “No Kings / No Tyrants”, and while we didn’t organize it—and it’s not our story to tell—we figured it was worth sharing for anyone curious or interested.

The event is part of a global day of action coordinated by Democrats Abroad. According to the organizers, the rally is in response to recent actions taken by former President Trump’s administration that they feel challenge democratic norms.

The Ensenada version of the rally will take place at Parque Revolución from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM. It’s fully permitted, peaceful, and open to both U.S. citizens living in Baja and any locals who want to show support for civil rights and democracy—whatever that means to them.

👉 ¿Y Baja qué?

We don’t endorse rallies, parades, protests, or piñata parties. But we do love community. So if this speaks to your values, or if you just want to see what democracy looks like with a Baja breeze, go check it out. If not, no worries—your Saturday tacos or Vineyards in Bloom await.

📍 Location: Parque Revolución, Ensenada

🕚 Time: 11:00 AM–1:00 PM

🔗 Map: Click here

🌍 More info: https://www.democratsabroad.org/mx_baja_california

📸 Photo: Courtesy of the event organizers

✏️ Just passing it along, from your GGNorth team

#Breaking #GGNorth #NoBadNews #CommunityMatters

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 Breaking News, Ensenada

Missing in the Waves: Search Efforts Intensify at Estero


16-Year-Old Still Missing After Entering the Ocean in Ensenada | Photo: Ensenada Fire Department

What started as a regular Monday beach day turned into an emergency rescue at Estero Beach, Ensenada.

At 3:58 PM on June 9, a distress call was made: four teens entered the ocean near Ex Ejido Chapultepec—only three came back. A search immediately began for the fourth, who hasn’t resurfaced.

Rescue crews from Ensenada’s fire department, along with four Navy personnel and seven aquatic specialists, are still combing the estuary area.

But here’s what many don’t know: Estero Beach isn’t as friendly as it looks.

This spot is infamous for powerful ocean currents. It’s where estuary and sea meet, creating swirling waters that pull swimmers out fast. Locals and authorities have repeatedly warned: don’t swim far, and never go deep.

According to SEMARNAT, unfamiliarity with ocean conditions and poor judgment—like ignoring lifeguards or signs—are leading causes of drownings.

Sadly, this beach has seen similar accidents before. And while lifeguards do their best, nature doesn’t negotiate.

Authorities haven’t yet released the teen’s name, but efforts to locate him continue.

So if you’re heading to Estero, enjoy the view, feel the breeze—but respect the water. It’s beautiful. It’s deadly. And it doesn’t give second chances.

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 Accidents, Breaking News, Ensenada

🚨 Truck Crash Sparks Fire—and Your Commute’s on Fire Too

📍La Salina, Ensenada — Saturday, June 7, 2025

What started as a quiet early Friday morning turned into smoke, sirens, and a frustrating crawl. Around 2:30 a.m. Friday, a cargo trailer flew off the scenic Tijuana–Ensenada highway near km 72 in La Salina. The impact ignited the truck, lighting up the cliffs like a bonfire gone very wrong.

Firefighters from Station Obregón, along with a rescue team, responded quickly. While putting out the blaze, they discovered a charred body inside the cab. No ID confirmed yet. The cause? Still unclear. The aftermath? Brutal.

📸 Photo and video by the GGNorth team

Drivers on Friday experienced delays of 5 to 15 minutes—an eternity when you’re trying to make it to brunch or beat the Market rush. Locals called it “business as usual” for this bumpy stretch of paradise.

👉 And What About Baja?

This isn’t the first time this stretch of highway makes headlines. Between rockslides, closures, and now flaming trucks, it’s becoming more of a scenic gamble than a scenic route. Is it time to invest in a safer plan? Or just carry extra patience (and gas)?

#Breaking #GGNorth #NoBadNews

Stuck in traffic? Caught it on camera? Share it with us—we’re all in this lane together.

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 Breaking News, International

From Bromance to Battlefield: Musk and Trump Are Done, and Baja’s Watching

It’s not a breakup. It’s a full-blown digital war.

Once upon a tweet, Elon Musk and Donald Trump were pals—posting praise, sharing platforms, and backing each other up in the strangest bromance this side of politics. But that bromance? Over. Done. Roasted.

Now they’re digging up receipts from years ago and launching digital grenades across their platforms—Musk on X (formerly Twitter), and Trump on Truth Social. Yes, they each have their own social network, because of course they do.

So what’s this fight really about?

Trump’s latest jab? Accusing Musk of breaching federal contracts and being nothing more than a self-serving opportunist. Musk clapped back with a reminder that he reinstated Trump’s X account and expected at least a thank-you card. Then came the interviews, leaked emails, and snide comments—all making it clear: these two are not getting brunch anytime soon.

Former bromance parked permanently 

And why should Baja care?

Because Mexico, especially border regions like ours, could very well end up in the middle of this fallout.

Trump hinted (again) that under his leadership, companies that don’t invest inside U.S. borders shouldn’t expect favors. So what happens if Musk takes that personally? What if he turns his gaze to Baja, where land, talent, and cross-border logistics are ready for the taking?

Our region has long been a tempting option for clean energy, aerospace, and tech investment. If Musk is looking to break ties with U.S. institutions and flex his independence, Baja California could be more than just a pit stop—it could be a plan B.

Was Musk just campaign arm candy?

Let’s be honest. A lot of people now believe Musk was paraded around for political clout—just another shiny endorsement to rally Silicon Valley voters. But when the confetti cleared, there was no love lost. No thanks. No recognition. Just cold, hard business.

What happens next?

Will Musk retaliate with major moves outside U.S. soil? Will Baja benefit from the fallout of two billionaire egos colliding? Or will this drama just fade into the internet void?

One thing’s for sure: we’re watching. And we’re not judging—some of our readers here still have MAGA hats, others drive Teslas.

But while these two throw punches online, we’ll sit back, open a chilled glass of 80% Chenin Blanc
20% French Colombard (yes, Lola by Symmetría if you can find it), and enjoy the show.

Because if you’re going to watch the world’s richest man and one of its loudest ex-presidents duke it out, at least do it with a bit of Baja class.

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