Crews Struggle to Contain Massive California Wildfire that's Injured 3 People
SANTA BARBARA AND SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTIES, CALIFORNIA, AUG 4 – Over 1,000 firefighters are battling the Gifford Fire, which threatens 460 structures and has caused three injuries, with containment at just 3%, officials said.
- On Sunday, the Gifford Fire in Los Padres National Forest burned 49,761 acres and is only 3% contained.
- Starting Friday, officials said the Gifford Fire originated as small blazes along Highway 166 about 15 miles northeast of Santa Maria within Los Padres National Forest.
- Cal Fire said three people were injured and 200 evacuated, with at least 460 structures threatened by the blaze.
- Authorities said Highway 166 remains closed between Highway 101 and New Cuyama due to flames, and evacuation orders cover Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo counties.
- Cal Fire said the cause remains under investigation, while Bay Area firefighters from Sonoma, Napa and Lake counties have mobilized to assist.
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Massive wildfire in central California threatens homes, injures 3 people as it burns out of control
Hundreds of remote homes are being threatened by a massive wildfire burning through Los Padres National Forest in central California. Three people have been injured, including a motorist with burn injuries who was overrun by flames. Officials say the Gifford…
California is on pace for its worst wildfire year in recent memory, and SoCal is mostly to blame
The Gifford fire straddling a rural stretch of the Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo county line continued to grow Monday, reaching 65,000 acres and 3% containment. Officials warn an upcoming heat wave will further challenge that firefight and bring widespread fire concerns.
Gifford Fire Northeast of Santa Maria Grows to 65,000 Acres
The Gifford Fire, the largest blaze currently burning in California, has topped 65,000 acres as it continued to rage out of control 15 miles northeast of Santa Maria. On Monday, the 65,062-acre fire threatened 460 structures as firefighters braced for another active day. The fire ignited Friday afternoon near the Gifford Trailhead and quickly spread, leading to the closure of Highway 166. The roadway connecting the Central Coast and Cuyama Val…
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