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Articles, Baja Norte, Breaking News

Hurricane Hilary Nears Cabo as Category 4

UPDATE: Due to Hurricane Hilary Provino has announced that the Paellas Contest that was going to be held this Sunday has been rescheduled for Sunday, August 27, 2023. The Ensenada half marathon race has also been rescheduled for the following weekend.

Hurricane Hilary intensified on Thursday, reaching Category 4 strength off the Pacific coast of Mexico and is expected to bring heavy downpours to the southwestern United States over the weekend.

As of early Friday morning, the storm boasted sustained winds around 220 kilometers per hour (136 miles per hour). According to the U.S. National Hurricane Center in Miami, it was anticipated that the hurricane would continue gaining strength until later in the morning. Meteorologists, however, expect Hilary to start weakening by Saturday.

Tropical storm conditions might begin to affect the Baja California peninsula by late Friday. Hilary’s projected path could either lead it to make landfall in central parts of the peninsula by Sunday, or it might stay offshore as it moves toward Southern California.

The center of Hilary was located about 685 kilometers (425 miles) south of Los Cabos, at the southern tip of the Baja California Peninsula. It was moving in a west-northwest direction at around 22 kilometers per hour (13.6 miles per hour), but is expected to gradually turn northward on Saturday.

The Hurricane Center has issued a hurricane warning and a tropical storm alert for parts of Baja California Sur, meaning tropical storm conditions are expected within 36 hours and hurricane conditions within 48 hours. There’s also a tropical storm alert for other areas of Baja California.

Meteorologists speculate that as Hilary approaches or grazes the Baja California peninsula, it could briefly survive as a tropical storm or depression and cross into the United States. Notably, no tropical storm has made landfall in Southern California since September 25, 1939, according to the U.S. National Weather Service.

“The rains from Hilary in the southwestern U.S. are predicted to peak this weekend and into Monday,” the NHC pointed out. “Flash and urban flooding are a possibility, with potential significant impacts.”

The area that could be affected by the heavy rains stretches from Bakersfield, California, through Yuma, Arizona, and into parts of southern Nevada. The forecast for excessive rainfall in Southern California spans from Sunday to Tuesday, the Los Angeles meteorological office reported.

While the chances of Hilary making landfall as a tropical storm in California are slim, there’s potential for heavy rainfall and flooding, noted Daniel Swain, a climatologist at UCLA, on Wednesday.

The Mexican government has indicated that the weakened storm could hit between the cities of Playas de Rosarito and Ensenada in the state of Baja California by Sunday night.

Meanwhile, the city of Yuma was preparing on Thursday by setting up a self-service station for residents to fill sandbags. The station will be stocked with sand and bags as long as supplies last, with residents allowed to take up to five bags per vehicle.

Governor of Baja Warns Citizens to Stay Indoors During Hurricane Hilary

The Governor of Baja California, Marina del Pilar Ávila Olmeda, has urged the state’s residents to be attentive to the developments of Hurricane “Hilary,” while emphasizing that there’s no need for undue alarm.

Currently, Hurricane Hilary is classified under the Yellow code. However, the Governor pointed out that once the hurricane reaches Baja California, it may be upgraded to the more serious Red code. As such, she stressed the importance of taking this warning with the gravity it deserves.

The first signs of rain, albeit mild, are expected to begin by Saturday and are forecasted to intensify come Sunday. The Governor noted, “It is essential to alert the public without causing panic. It’s understandable for citizens to be anxious about such situations. I urge everyone to stay updated through official media channels where continuous information will be provided.”

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 Baja Norte, Breaking News, Economy

Baja California Ranks Third in Average Monthly Household Income Nationally

EDITOR NOTE: The dollar (USD) amounts in this article where converted from the pesos amount mentioned in the article at an exchange rate of 16.80 pesos per dollar.

Baja California has risen to the third spot among Mexican states with the highest average monthly household income. It now boasts an income of 29,637.41 pesos (1,764 USD), according to analysts from the Metropolitan Center for Economic and Business Information (Cemdi).

Aram Hodoyán Navarro, the head of Cemdi, referred to data from the 2022 National Household Income and Expenditure Survey (Enigh) conducted by the National Institute of Statistics and Geography (Inegi). He pointed out that the regions with the highest average monthly income are Baja California Sur and Mexico City, earning 30,472.37 and 29,770.09 pesos respectively (1,814 and 1,772 USD). The amount in Baja California of 29,637.41 pesos (1,764 USD) is significantly higher than the national average of 21,231.82 pesos (1,264 USD).

In contrast, Navarro compared, the states with the lowest monthly average household income as per this survey are Chiapas and Guerrero, earning 13,281.61 and 13,918.02 pesos, respectively (791 and 832 USD). In the context of Baja California, an average household typically comprises three members. The household head is generally 49 years old, and the other two members may also be employed. “Households in Baja California reported an average monthly income of 29,637.41 pesos (1,764 USD), a 15.0 percent increase compared to the 2020 Enigh results,” he detailed.

Navarro further noted that the primary source of income for these households is salaries from subordinate jobs, which account for 72.88 percent or about 21,598.47 pesos (1,286 USD). Transfers make up 10.93 percent of the income, with half of this being from retirements and pensions.

When discussing average monthly household expenses, Navarro indicated that the national average stands at 13,321.60 pesos (680 USD). The states with the highest expenses were Mexico City and Baja California, spending 19,632.54 and 16,771.14 pesos respectively (1,169 and 998 USD). In contrast, Chiapas and Oaxaca had the lowest expenses, at 8,647.63 and 8,865.80 pesos respectively (515 and 528 USD).

Furthermore, Navarro mentioned that the state saw a 19.1 percent increase in the average monthly household expenditure compared to the figures from the 2020 Enigh. Of these expenses, the primary spending category was food, beverages, and tobacco, making up 32.09 percent. This was followed by transportation, acquisition, maintenance, accessories, and services for vehicles, and communications which took up 23.76 percent.

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 Baja Norte, Breaking News, Charities, Rosarito

Kids With Autism Receive Wave Therapy in Rosarito

Wave lovers unite! Kids from the Fundación Autismo Esedin in Mexicali got to ride the waves, thanks to the free “Olas para todos” (Waves for All) program offered by the Locales Surf School.

Here’s the fun part: this wasn’t just any trip to the beach. The kiddos and their families were chauffeured free of charge, all thanks to the “Corazones Viajeros” (Traveling Hearts) initiative. The heart behind this? The Tourism Department of Baja California! They’ve kickstarted this Social Tourism Program to sprinkle some magic and offer enriching experiences for locals. The big goal? Free and accessible tours showcasing the splendid tourist spots of the state.

Just like the previous year, these little surfers-in-the-making received guidance from the top pros of the sport. The Escuela de Surf Locales has been diving into this for a whopping nine years, striving to give these children an unparalleled sea experience.

Our main man, Juan Carlos Luna, who heads the “Olas para todos” program stated that the surf therapies started rolling in April and are set to make a splash till October. October is particularly exciting as they’ve got back-to-back sessions planned in Rosarito and Ventura, California.

Here’s a heartwarming tidbit: these therapies are a Godsend for families with children diagnosed with Down Syndrome or other conditions. The number of beneficiaries has been on a steady rise. To give you an idea, a digital count over the last three years recorded about 800 enthusiastic participants, including beneficiary children and volunteers. As Juan puts it, “The numbers keep growing because parents spread the word, and pictures from the sessions shared on social media only adds to the buzz.”

Juan adds that the therapies are held at beaches where the waves are gentle. But they don’t leave it to chance. Dedicated teams monitor the currents and waves, predicting the wave conditions a cool 16 days in advance.

Safety first! The therapy zones are pristine, free from pollution. The water quality? Top-notch. There have been zero reported cases of allergic reactions or other ailments.

In closing, a massive shoutout to the volunteers who ride this wave of goodness. These are not just experienced surfers but also young enthusiasts chipping in to the program.

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 Baja Norte, Breaking News, Weather

Tropical Storm Hilary on Its Way to Baja

The State Civil Protection Coordination has activated its hydrometeorological risk prevention protocol in light of the storm Hilary, which originated in the Mexican Pacific Ocean. Forecasts suggest that it could impact the state’s territory this weekend, bringing moderate rains and winds. The areas most likely to be affected include the municipalities of San Quintín, Ensenada, Playas de Rosarito, and Tijuana. However, authorities have stressed that the storm’s trajectory could change.

Salvador Cervantes Hernández, the head of the State Civil Protection Coordination, mentioned that in line with state government policies, there’s an ongoing effort to closely monitor meteorological models. Furthermore, an extraordinary session of the Baja California State Civil Protection Council will be convened on Friday, August 18, coupled with the activation of the State Emergency Committee. Additionally, cooperation from all Baja California municipalities will be sought to execute preventative measures.

Even though Baja California isn’t among the states listed at highest risk by the preliminary reports from the National Water Commission (Conagua), the top priority remains the protection of its residents. The state’s aim is to assess all possible measures to reduce the likelihood of threats to the safety and property of its population.

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 Baja Norte, Breaking News, Events, Rosarito

Baja Beach Fest 2023 Brings 30,000 Tourists to Rosarito

UPDATE: Although the official statement from our local authorities said that “not even a wallet was reported stolen” we have now received reports of cell phones, jewelry and even drugs being stolen at the event. When we asked a victim if they had filed police reports she said: “we were on a tight partying schedule, we were not going to lose a day filing a report over a stolen cell phone!”

This past weekend, Baja California hosted one of its most significant events: the Baja Beach Fest. With an influx of 30,000 tourists, ensuring safety was a top priority, resulting in no incidents or mishaps.

Marina del Pilar Ávila, the Governor of Baja California, expressed her gratitude to the local and federal institutions for their unwavering support during the festival. She emphasized the importance of continued collaboration in ensuring such events remain incident-free.

Leopoldo Tizoc, the Secretary of Public Safety in Baja California, highlighted the teamwork between multiple entities: the National Defense Department (SEDENA), National Guard (GN), Municipal Police, and the State’s Public Safety Department (SSCBC). He noted that their success was due to the implementation of three core security layers: internal, perimeter, and external. Thanks to these efforts, there wasn’t even a single reported loss of a wallet, attesting to the orderly conduct of attendees.

Tizoc detailed the deployment of 600 SSCBC personnel, inclusion of the entire ‘Violet Squadron’, 120 National Guard members, and 200 soldiers. He reaffirmed the commitment to maintaining security across all regions of Baja California, regardless of the nature of the operation.

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 Baja Norte, Breaking News

Baja California Starts its Vacation Season

State authorities, as well as those from the municipalities of Rosarito, Ensenada, San Quintín, and San Felipe, have started the holiday operative that will be implemented during Easter week. However, Tijuana was not represented during the launch of the operation.

Marina del Pilar Ávila Olmeda, the Governor of the State, stated that with the joint operation, involving different secretariats – Economy, Public Security, Tourism, and Environment – as well as municipalities, they hope this period ends with no incidents.

She added that a special assistance and orientation hotline for local and foreign tourists will be opened, with the number 078, in addition to the various social media channels of the State Government.

Capufe, Ángeles Verdes, the National Guard, State Public Security, municipal police, Red Cross, Fiarum, Profeco, and the Fire Department of each municipality will also participate in the holiday operation.

“In Ensenada, we will have 191 personnel and 96 units for patrols in tourist areas; Tecate’s Civil Protection and Firefighters will support with their six stations to promptly attend emergencies, and we will also have five vehicles in strategic points of the State to assist tourists,” said the Governor during her morning press conference held in Playas de Rosarito.

Similarly, Tecate will activate the Tourist Police who will cover the entry and exit points of the city with 138 personnel and 15 units.

For its part, the Red Cross will make available 120 personnel and 36 ambulances, while the Secretary of Citizen Security will patrol the busiest areas.

Regarding this, Leopoldo Aguilar, the head of the department, indicated that the area where they will pay the most attention is La Rumorosa, not because of criminal incidents, but because it is where there is the highest risk of accidents among vacationers.

However, during the launch of the operation, the absence of Tijuana’s units was highlighted, despite the fact that most foreign tourists arrive through Tijuana.

Federal agencies such as Profeco or the National Institute of Migration will open modules in tourist areas, border crossings, the central bus station, and the airport, but it was not mentioned if Tijuana would implement any activity related to the state operation.

Ávila Olmeda also announced the distribution of a discount card throughout the State, “Be a tourist in BC,” which can be obtained physically at the tourist service modules of each municipality, or digitally through the portal www.bajacalifornia.gob.mx.

SOURCE: Semanario ZETA

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 Baja Norte, Breaking News, Rosarito, Water

Former Director of CESPT Discusses Water Issues with Pro-Municipality Committee

The Pro-Municipality Committee of Rosarito, Baja California recently invited Enrique Ruelas, former director of the State Public Service Commission of Tijuana (CESPT), to discuss water issues affecting the region.

During the meeting, Ruelas spoke about the challenges faced by the CESPT, particularly with regard to the distribution of water to different parts of the state. He also discussed the need for better infrastructure and more efficient water management systems in order to ensure that all residents have access to clean and reliable water.

Ruelas emphasized the importance of collaboration between different government agencies and civil society groups in addressing water-related issues. He also noted that the issue of water scarcity is not unique to Baja California, but is a global challenge that requires innovative solutions and a commitment to sustainability.

The Pro-Municipality Committee is a grassroots organization that advocates for the creation of a new municipality in Rosarito. The group argues that creating a new municipality would allow for more efficient and effective governance, and would help to address long-standing issues related to public services, infrastructure, and economic development.

The discussion with Ruelas is part of the group’s ongoing efforts to engage with experts and stakeholders on issues of importance to the community. Through these conversations, the Pro-Municipality Committee hopes to build support for its campaign and to work towards a more prosperous and sustainable future for Rosarito and its residents.

The meeting was seen as a positive step forward in addressing water-related issues in the region, and in promoting greater collaboration and cooperation between different actors in the community.

SOURCE: Ecos de Rosarito by Juan Pablo Sebastián

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 Baja Norte, Breaking News, Public Security, Tijuana

Police Bust Drug Warehouse in TJ With Fentanyl Pills and Firearms

Mexican authorities continue to make strides in their fight against drug trafficking, as they recently announced the dismantling of another synthetic drug warehouse in the city of Tijuana, Baja California.

According to local news source El Vigia, the operation was carried out by the Federal Police in coordination with the Mexican Army and the National Guard. The warehouse was located in the Mesa de Otay neighborhood and contained 300 kilograms of methamphetamine and 3,000 fentanyl pills, both highly addictive and dangerous synthetic drugs.

This is not the first time that Mexican authorities have targeted drug traffickers in Tijuana, as the city is known to be a major hub for the trafficking of drugs into the United States. In fact, just yesterday, two men were arrested by the State Security and Citizen Protection Guard (FESC) for possession of four firearms and pills of fentanyl, a synthetic opioid that is up to 100 times more potent than morphine.

The men were identified as 25-year-old Francisco N. and 29-year-old Alejandro N., who were traveling in a white SUV when they were stopped by FESC officers. Upon inspection of the vehicle, the officers found the weapons and drugs, prompting the arrest of the suspects.

The FESC has been working in collaboration with other law enforcement agencies to crack down on drug trafficking and other criminal activities in Tijuana. This latest arrest is just one example of the ongoing efforts to ensure the safety and security of citizens in the area.

Drug trafficking remains a significant problem in Mexico, with drug cartels vying for control of territory and smuggling routes. However, authorities have made significant progress in recent years, as evidenced by the dismantling of drug warehouses and the arrests of traffickers. It is important that these efforts continue to prevent the harmful effects of drug addiction on individuals and communities.

SOURCE: El Vigia, El Imparcial

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 Breaking News, Ensenada

Join Beach Cleaning Efforts in Ensenada

David “El Chiquis” Quintero, a young influencer, is inviting the community to participate in the cleaning of Playa Pacífica, which will take place on Saturday, March 25th. The activity is coordinated by AO Latinoamerica and CUT Universidad Campus Ensenada and aims to maintain the place in optimal conditions for the community and the species that inhabit it, such as the birds that nest there.

The activity will begin at 9:00 am and will last until noon. Citizen participation, especially from local residents, is essential to achieve greater waste collection.

“These actions are part of an annual cleaning program that seeks to generate awareness and promote marine education, the reduction of plastic waste, responsible consumption, and the formation of sustainable communities,” said Norma López Saucedo, director of CUT Universidad, Campus Ensenada. There will be cleanings throughout the year.

This year, five cleanings will be carried out on beaches and streams in the city, thanks to the support of the Mares Foundation, which promotes ocean literacy through an education program on caring for the seas. Last year, thanks to the cleanings carried out, more than 1,475 kilograms of waste were prevented from reaching the sea, and close to 9% of the collected waste was recycled. The goal is to exceed the number of 445 people who participated in the cleanings last year and achieve greater environmental awareness in the community.

SOURCE: El Vigia

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 Baja Norte, Breaking News, San Diego

Baja Promotes its Sport Fishing Activities in San Diego

The coasts of Baja California offer the experience of enjoying sport fishing for most of the year, due to their variety of climates, landscapes, and species, highlighted the Secretary of Fisheries and Aquaculture (Sepesca), Alma Rosa García Juárez, while participating in the traditional “Day at the Dock’s” event in San Diego. The state official brought greetings from Governor Marina del Pilar Ávila Olmeda, at a family-friendly gathering attended by hundreds of sport fishing enthusiasts, including promoters who showed interest in the attractions of Baja California at all times.

The event, convened by Ken Franke, president of the Sportfishing Association of California (SAC), was attended by the Mexican Consul General in San Diego, Carlos González Gutiérrez, as well as Alberto Lozano, tourism promoter from the same diplomatic mission. García Juárez indicated that it is important for Baja California to have a presence at this symbolic and traditional meeting, in a friendly atmosphere that brings together service providers, enthusiasts, and professionals in sport fishing.

She said that, as neighboring states, California and Baja California are part of a region of interest to many service providers who participate in this exciting and generous activity. “The landscapes, variety of species, and climate make it possible for us to enjoy the benefits of the sea in Baja California for most of the year, especially with a culture of years, from those who live close to the Pacific Ocean and the Sea of Cortez,” she said. She recalled that this year, 11 official tournaments have been scheduled in this state, in a calendar supported by SEPESCA, which will take place mainly in the Bay of Ensenada, San Quintín, Bahía de los Ángeles, Isla de Cedros, and San Felipe.

Of the 11 official tournaments, she highlighted the International Championship “Copa Baja California” which consists of 4 tournaments: in San Felipe (June 23 and 24), Bahía de los Ángeles (July 21 and 22), Ensenada (August 25 and 26), and the grand final in San Quintín (September 22 and 23). She also mentioned that the “Bluefin Tuna Tournament” is scheduled (May 26, 27 and 28), and the first exclusive women’s tournament, called “Queens of the Sea” (October 20 and 21). She indicated that information on sport fishing destinations and tournaments is available on the website bajacalifornia.gob.mx/sepesca, which has an interactive design that interested parties can access. She informed them that, as sport fishing practitioners, they can travel to Mexico with a boat on a trailer, for which they must complete a federal procedure, consisting of temporary importation at Banjercito offices, for which they must have a passport and legal information about their boat.

From May to September, the SEPESCA head suggested that the best months for sport fishing in Baja California are from May to September when bluefin tuna, castilla mackerel, dorado, croaker, marlin, bonita, grouper, sea bass, snapper, rockfish, sole, vieja, or lingcod, among others, can be caught. It is worth noting that the California Sportfishing Association offered to disseminate the sport fishing activities that will take place during the year in Baja California through its digital media.

SOURCE: El Vigia

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