A fast-moving fire tore through the historic community of San José de Comondú on the afternoon of Thursday, July 9, destroying or damaging more than 40 homes and leaving dozens of families without shelter in one of Baja California Sur’s worst rural disasters in recent memory.
Comondú Mayor Rigoberto Pantoja Castro said the blaze reached “incredible proportions” in just 40 minutes, leaving “several houses in ashes.” Beyond homes, the fire destroyed vehicles, killed livestock, and burned through sections of the community’s famous date palm groves.
Multi-Municipality Emergency Response
The fire triggered a massive response across Baja California Sur. The Comondú fire department coordinated the operation alongside the National Forestry Commission (CONAFOR). Firefighters from Loreto deployed to help battle the flames, and the forestry brigade from the San José del Cabo fire department was placed on Level 2 alert in case additional support was needed.
Civil protection units, volunteer brigades, and emergency personnel from multiple municipalities joined the effort. Milena Quiroga Romero, La Paz mayor currently on leave, said she is coordinating with Pantoja Castro and La Paz acting mayor Amor Fenech to channel aid to the community.
Statewide Aid Campaign Launched
The governments of Comondú, La Paz, Los Cabos, Loreto, and Mulegé, along with the state government, launched a joint campaign to collect food, water, hygiene supplies, clothing, and other essentials for the displaced families. The Comondú city government’s preliminary report confirmed more than 40 families were affected, with losses ranging from partial structural damage to total destruction of property.
San José de Comondú sits in the Sierra de la Giganta, roughly 130 kilometers northwest of La Paz. The small settlement dates to the Spanish mission era and is known for its palm orchards, fruit gardens, and well-preserved colonial architecture. The community has no direct highway access and is reached by a winding mountain road, complicating both the emergency response and the delivery of supplies.
Authorities Suspect Arson
Comondú Mayor Pantoja Castro told El Sudcaliforniano that investigations point to the fire being deliberately set. Authorities have not announced any arrests or identified suspects. The incident has prompted officials to call for reinforced fire prevention measures across the state as Baja California Sur enters its hottest and driest months.
Residents and visitors in the Comondú, Loreto, and La Paz areas should be aware that emergency personnel and municipal resources may be redirected toward recovery efforts in the coming days. Those wishing to donate can contact the Comondú municipal government for information on collection points.
This story was first reported by BCS Noticias and El Sudcaliforniano.