Mexico is poisoning Southern California in a border crisis almost no one knows about

Fox News - Mar 24th, 2025
Open on Fox News

Southern California is facing a severe environmental and public health crisis due to an unprecedented flow of 100 billion gallons of raw sewage and toxic runoff from Tijuana, Mexico, into U.S. communities over the past five years. In 2023 alone, 44 billion gallons have crossed the border. This pollution contains hazardous substances like E. coli and arsenic, leading to water contamination and air pollution that have caused health issues among residents and pets, prolonged beach closures, and a decline in tourism. The situation has also impacted military training activities in the region.

The crisis highlights significant failures in addressing cross-border pollution, with successive U.S. administrations unable to hold Mexico accountable despite extensive taxpayer spending. Critics argue for stronger leadership and decisive action from the U.S. government, including the Environmental Protection Agency, to pressure Mexico into resolving the issue. San Diego County Supervisor Jim Desmond emphasizes the need for immediate solutions to protect public health and the environment, urging an end to ineffective policies and leadership failures.

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RATING

6.0
Moderately Fair
Read with skepticism

The news story offers a compelling look at a significant environmental and public health crisis affecting Southern California due to sewage pollution from Mexico. Its strengths lie in its timely focus and its capacity to engage public interest by highlighting the severe implications of the issue. However, the article would benefit from greater balance and transparency, particularly in terms of source attribution and the inclusion of diverse perspectives. While it effectively raises awareness and could influence public opinion, the lack of detailed sourcing and potential bias may limit its overall impact and credibility. Enhancing these aspects could make the narrative more robust and facilitate more meaningful engagement and policy discourse.

RATING DETAILS

7
Accuracy

The news story presents several factual claims about the environmental crisis at the U.S.-Mexico border. The claim of over 100 billion gallons of sewage crossing into the U.S. over the past five years aligns with reports from credible sources such as the International Boundary and Water Commission. However, the specific figure of 44 billion gallons in 2023 requires further verification from official environmental agencies.

The health risks mentioned, including the presence of E. coli and other toxic substances, are supported by studies from institutions like San Diego State University. The reported health effects on residents and pets, such as skin infections and viral pharyngitis, are plausible but would benefit from additional data from local health authorities.

The story accurately reflects the ongoing beach closures and their impact on tourism and local residents, a fact corroborated by local health department records. However, the narrative could be strengthened by providing more detailed evidence or sources for the health claims and economic impacts mentioned.

5
Balance

The article predominantly presents a critical viewpoint regarding the handling of the sewage crisis by both the U.S. and Mexican governments. While it highlights the failures of past administrations, it lacks a balanced perspective that includes potential efforts or successes in addressing the issue.

There is a notable absence of voices from Mexican officials or environmental agencies that could provide a counter-narrative or additional context. The piece also does not explore the complexities of international environmental policies or the challenges faced by Mexico in managing sewage treatment.

Overall, the story leans heavily towards a singular narrative, potentially skewing the reader's perception without presenting a comprehensive view of the situation.

7
Clarity

The article is generally clear and straightforward, with a logical flow that guides the reader through the narrative of the environmental crisis. The language is direct and easy to understand, making the complex issue accessible to a broad audience.

However, the tone is somewhat alarmist, which may affect the neutrality of the piece. Phrases like "we are being poisoned" and "no one is stopping it" contribute to a sense of urgency but could be seen as sensationalist.

Overall, while the article communicates its message effectively, a more measured tone and careful word choice would improve its neutrality and enhance reader comprehension.

6
Source quality

The article references specific figures and claims that suggest reliance on credible sources like government agencies and academic institutions. However, it does not directly cite these sources within the text, which diminishes the perceived reliability of the information presented.

The lack of direct quotes or detailed attributions from experts, officials, or affected residents weakens the story's authority. Inclusion of such sources would enhance credibility and provide a more robust foundation for the claims made.

While the story seems informed by factual data, the absence of explicit source attribution limits its reliability and leaves room for doubt regarding the accuracy of the information shared.

5
Transparency

The article lacks transparency in terms of disclosing the sources of its claims and the methodology used to gather the information. There is no clear explanation of how the figures, such as the volume of sewage, were obtained or verified.

The author does not reveal any potential conflicts of interest or biases, such as political affiliations, that could influence the narrative. This omission makes it difficult for readers to fully assess the impartiality of the reporting.

Greater transparency about the sources and the process behind the story would enhance trust and allow readers to better evaluate the credibility of the information presented.

Sources

  1. https://abcnews.go.com/US/us-mexico-border-100-billion-gallons-toxic-sewage/story?id=107349716
  2. https://www.foxnews.com
  3. https://kiisfm.iheart.com/featured/la-local-news/content/2025-03-21-sewage-crisis-at-us-mexico-border-sparks-new-tensions/
  4. https://www.foxnews.com/opinion/mexico-poisoning-southern-california-border-crisis-almost-no-one-knows-about
  5. https://www.politico.com/news/2025/03/20/next-border-fight-stinker-00241886