More than 50 homes were affected by a fire that swept through part of San José de Comondú, one of the historic oasis communities of Baja California Sur, with a history spanning more than 300 years.
Authorities confirmed that the fire in the community’s palm groves triggered an emergency response and the evacuation of residents. Firefighting operations lasted at least 12 hours, successfully protecting the population. However, the blaze destroyed 25 homes and caused damage to at least 50 others.
The mayor of the municipality of Comondú, Roberto Pantoja Castro, stated that preliminary reports indicate the fire was caused by negligence during the burning of palm waste, an activity closely linked to the local economy.
Once the fire started, emergency crews and firefighters worked to contain it. However, because of the dense vegetation, strong winds, and high temperatures, the flames spread rapidly, forcing dozens of families to evacuate.
“The material losses are extensive—vehicles, domestic animals, and homes that formed part of the town’s historical heritage. We must remember that this community has more than 300 years of history,” he said.
Damage assessments are continuing, and additional support brigades have arrived from the Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo Fire Departments, along with personnel from other municipalities, military units, and the state government to assist affected families.
The mayor emphasized that only a few weeks earlier, the community had participated in training with the National Forestry Commission (CONAFOR) on proper waste management. Despite this, he said those responsible failed to follow the required safety measures, and legal complaints will be filed.
“It was completely irresponsible,” he stated, adding that the fire got out of control within minutes due to weather conditions.
He explained that the priority during the emergency was evacuating residents while firefighters, Civil Protection personnel, ambulances, and security forces rushed to the community to stop the advance of the flames.
Municipal authorities have established a collection center to receive donations of food, clothing, drinking water, and essential supplies for the affected families.
A Historic Oasis
San José de Comondú is part of the oasis system of Baja California Sur, a group of unique ecosystems within the peninsula’s desert landscape where water, vegetation, and human settlements have existed since the Spanish missionary era.
Located in the Sierra de la Giganta, the community has preserved historic buildings, date palm groves, fruit orchards, and an important agricultural and tourism economy centered on the region’s cultural heritage. In recent years, residents have also promoted the production of traditional missionary wine, using methods introduced by the early missionaries.
Personnel from the State General Secretariat of Government are conducting damage assessments and a census to determine the assistance that will be provided to the affected community.
Source: eluniversal
