FireWatch: World Updates, March 2025

Recently, Monterrey, Mexico, has been grappling with a series of devastating fires. Over 200 fires were reported across the metropolitan area, primarily due to strong winds and a cold front. The fires have affected various municipalities, including Monterrey, García, and Santa Catarina.

The fires began in vacant lots and quickly spread to nearby areas, causing significant damage. In Monterrey, a forest fire on Cerro del Topo Chico mountain affected three hectares and was 50% contained. In Santa Catarina, flames damaged 23 hectares along the García highway, starting in a vacant lot and spreading to a car lot and an auto parts store. García saw 20 hectares consumed by fire, which also originated in a vacant lot and spread to several companies’ buildings.

Authorities, including the National Guard, the Phoenix Brigade, and the Civil Protection, have been working tirelessly to extinguish the fires. Despite the extensive damage, there have been no reports of injuries. However, the fires have worsened air quality, prompting the Environment Ministry to expand the state’s environmental contingency alert.

The situation remains critical, with firefighters continuing their efforts to control the remaining active fires. Residents have been advised to avoid outdoor activities until conditions improve. So far, 10 people have been arrested as suspects in some incidents. While authorities have not elaborated on what role these suspects might have played in the fires, the state of Nuevo León does have a law requiring vacant lots to be cleared by certain legal deadlines.​

Noncompliant landowners can find their lots cleared by the city and face a fine. As a result, it´s a commonly known practice across México for landowners to cheaply comply with such laws by setting their lots on fire. One of the three yearly deadlines for the state of Nuevo León to clear vacant lots is in March.​

Monterrey is the capital city of Nuevo León, one of México´s wealthiest and most industrialized states. It is a central business hub, home to some of the largest companies in México and has a high concentration of manufacturing and industrial activities with a significant contributions to the nation´s economy. Its strategic location near the US border facilitates international trade, while its strong infrastructure supports various manufacturing sectors. Furthermore, the presence of world-class universities and a skilled workforce contribute to its innovative and competitive edge.

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