California's Largest Blaze Explodes in Size as Dry, Hot Weather Raises Wildfire Risk Statewide
- On July 3rd, 2025, the Madre Fire had burned more than 52,593 acres in the southeastern part of San Luis Obispo County, California.
- The fire started Wednesday early afternoon within the Los Padres National Forest area located to the east of Santa Maria, fueled by dry and hot conditions that have increased fire danger across the state.
- Firefighters worked in 95-degree Fahrenheit heat with only 5% containment as gusts reaching 40 mph worsened conditions and forced evacuations near State Route 166.
- Meteorologist Ryan Kittell explained that while winds remain gentle in the morning, they tend to strengthen considerably later in the afternoon and into the evening, creating additional difficulties.
- The fire became California's largest blaze this year, threatening grasslands and prompting evacuations while dozens of smaller wildfires also burned statewide.
47 Articles
47 Articles
California's largest blaze this year explodes in size amid scorching heat, high winds
A wildfire in central California's wilderness rapidly expanded Thursday as hot, dry conditions heightened fire risks ahead of July Fourth. The Madre Fire, now the state's largest this year, scorched over 82 square miles (212 sq km) in San Luis Obispo County since Wednesday. Containment remained at just 10% by evening.
Madre Fire: California's largest blaze explodes in size as dry, hot weather raises wildfire risk
he Madre Fire became California's largest blaze so far this year, ripping through grasslands after breaking out Wednesday in southeastern San Luis Obispo County.

California's largest blaze this year explodes in size as hot weather raises wildfire risk statewide
A wildfire in a wilderness area of central California has exploded in size. Dry, hot weather is raising the fire risk for large portions of the state ahead of the July Fourth holiday.
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