SANTA MARIA, Calif. (AP) – A massive wildfire, known as the Gifford Fire, has rapidly spread in central California, specifically within Los Padres National Forest. As of Tuesday morning, the fire has scorched more than 129 square miles (334 square kilometers) across coastal Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo counties. It remains only 7% contained, posing a threat to more than 800 structures and leaving at least three individuals injured.
According to reports, over 1,900 personnel have been deployed to battle the blaze, which originated from at least four smaller fires that erupted along State Route 166 between Santa Maria and Bakersfield last Friday. The investigation into the cause of these fires is currently underway.
The fire's difficult terrain has complicated firefighting efforts, with steep hills hindering the accessibility for bulldozers. Capt. Scott Safechuck, a spokesperson for the Santa Barbara County Fire Department, noted that a large smoke column has developed and is affecting air quality across parts of Southwest California. The National Weather Service's Los Angeles office has warned that wildfire smoke poses health risks, with smoke expected to drift south and eastward.
The Gifford Fire has led to the closure of the highway in both directions east of Santa Maria, a city with a population of approximately 110,000 residents. The area, located about 65 miles (105 kilometers) northwest of Santa Barbara and 150 miles (240 kilometers) northwest of Los Angeles, is well-known for its agricultural richness, featuring extensive strawberry fields and thriving wine industry.
In an update provided on Monday evening, officials reported significant progress on the west, north, and east flanks of the fire. Enhanced structure protection efforts are being concentrated on the south end. To improve firefighting efficiency, two new base camps have been established on the north and east sides of the fire, allowing for better access to the fire perimeter. Firefighters plan to deploy additional helicopters for water drops, with drones assisting in reconnaissance operations.
The upcoming weather is expected to exacerbate fire conditions, with a warming and drying trend predicted from Wednesday through the weekend. Temperatures are anticipated to reach between 90 to 100 degrees on Thursday and Friday, which could increase fire behavior further.
Among the casualties, a motorist was hospitalized with burn injuries after exiting their vehicle to escape flames and subsequently being overtaken. Additionally, two contract workers assisting firefighting efforts were injured when their all-terrain vehicle overturned. As a precaution, ranchers began evacuating cattle from the area, while aircraft continued to make water drops to combat the advancing flames.
