Smoke from La Rumorosa, México fire Turns Imperial Valley Skies orange and Air Quality Unhealthy

IMPERIAL VALLEY, Calif. (June 19, 2025) — Thick smoke from a wildfire burning in the La Rumorosa region of northern Baja California drifted into the Imperial Valley Thursday evening, casting a reddish haze over communities and causing air quality to drop to unhealthy levels.

Smoke began moving into the area around 5:00 p.m., carried by strong winds from the mountains of northern Mexico. Cities across the Imperial Valley — including Brawley, El Centro, Imperial, Holtville, Calexico, and Ocotillo — reported hazy skies, the strong smell of smoke, and ash falling from the sky. Visibility was especially limited near Interstate 8, particularly around Ocotillo and Jacumba, where smoke was thickest.

As of 9:40 p.m., the Air Quality Index (AQI) in the region had reached levels categorized as “Unhealthy”, prompting public health concerns. At these levels, everyone may begin to experience adverse health effects, with sensitive groups — including children, older adults, and those with respiratory or heart conditions — at higher risk.

Residents are urged to stay indoors, close windows, use filtered air if available, and avoid prolonged outdoor activity. Those who must go outside are advised to wear a properly fitted N95 mask to reduce smoke exposure.

Smoke Conditions & Fire Behavior

Though exact acreage and containment levels of the La Rumorosa fire have not been confirmed by Baja California authorities, the blaze has generated heavy smoke plumes that have traveled dozens of miles, crossing the U.S.–Mexico border. The terrain in the La Rumorosa region is rugged and mountainous, and wind conditions Thursday evening funneled smoke directly into the Imperial Valley.

No structures are currently reported to be threatened in Imperial County, but the smoke has affected daily life, from low visibility on roads to air quality alerts issued by regional health agencies. Local authorities are monitoring conditions closely.

At this time, there are no evacuation orders in place for communities on the U.S. side of the border.

Air Quality Monitoring

The Imperial County Air Pollution Control District reported AQI levels of 200 and above as of 9:30 P.M 06/19/2025, placing the region in the “Unhealthy” category. Health officials continue to monitor conditions and encourage the public to take precautions.

Correction Note:

A previous version of this article incorrectly attributed the smoke over Imperial Valley to the Monte Fire near San Diego. We have since confirmed the smoke originated from a wildfire in La Rumorosa, Baja California.

We apologize for the error and any confusion it may have caused.