Massive Blaze Engulfs Chula Vista Recycling Facility and Surrounding Commercial Buildings

A significant fire broke out at the South Bay Recycling facility in Chula Vista around 2:00 a.m. on Wednesday, leading to fire crews responding to the scene for extensive firefighting efforts. The blaze rapidly spread to adjacent commercial buildings, prompting the deployment of nearly 100 firefighters to combat the flames. San Diego Fire-Rescue Department officials reported that dense smoke could be observed from miles away, significantly impacting visibility in the area. Fire Chief Colin Stowell stated, “The fire is very large and very intense, and it continues to spread to adjacent structures.” Multiple agencies, including the Chula Vista Fire Department and the U.S. Navy, collaborated to extinguish the fire, which posed a risk of spreading to a nearby residential area. The responders faced challenges due to the fire’s intensity and the complexity of the structures involved. Emergency services established a perimeter, evacuating businesses nearby and advising residents to avoid the area. Multiple explosions were reported due to the fire, further complicating the situation. The cause of the fire is currently under investigation, and no injuries have been reported as of yet.