Los Angeles : A fast-moving wildfire known as the Gifford Fire has burned through more than 82,000 acres (approximately 332 square kilometers) in Central California, threatening over 870 structures and prompting widespread evacuations in Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo counties, officials said Tuesday.
The blaze, which ignited Friday afternoon after four separate fires along a California highway merged, has become one of the largest active wildfires in the state this season. As of Tuesday morning, containment stood at just 7 percent, according to the U.S. Forest Service and the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (Cal Fire).
Evacuation Orders and Health Warnings
Residents in affected zones have been ordered to evacuate as the fire continues to exhibit erratic behavior, driven by dry fuels, rugged terrain, and shifting winds.
“Due to erratic fire behavior, residents should watch for changing conditions in their area,” officials warned in an incident update.
The National Weather Service (NWS) in Los Angeles also issued a health advisory due to smoke from the fire, which is expected to drift south and east, potentially affecting air quality in parts of Southwest California.
Firefighting Efforts Intensify
More than 1,900 personnel have been deployed to the scene, including 40 hand crews, 115 fire engines, 23 bulldozers, and 30 water tenders. Aerial support includes air tankers and helicopters as crews battle the fire across steep, inaccessible terrain.
“A lot of it’s in really inaccessible areas where even bulldozers can’t get into,” said Captain Scott Safechuck of the Santa Barbara County Fire Department, noting the difficulty of ground operations. “Aircraft are being added to the firefight to slow the spread.”
Authorities are prioritizing contingency fire lines on the northern and southern flanks of the fire, especially as weather conditions are expected to worsen. Forecasts predict hotter and drier conditions from Wednesday through the weekend, which could increase the fire’s spread.
Ongoing Risk and Uncertainty
The full extent of the damage remains unclear as firefighters continue their containment efforts. Officials are urging residents in nearby areas to stay alert, adhere to evacuation orders, and avoid traveling near the fire zone.
The Gifford Fire adds to a growing list of wildfires impacting the western United States amid a season marked by record heat and prolonged drought conditions.
Authorities will provide further updates as containment progresses and damage assessments continue.
