California Wildfire Rages: Gifford Fire Expands, Evacuations Intensify
The Gifford Fire, burning near the Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo county line, has dramatically expanded, reaching 43,118 acres by Sunday morning. This rapid growth has triggered expanded evacuation orders as fire crews battle to contain the blaze along its southern edge.
The fire ignited Friday afternoon and surged to 30,000 acres by Saturday, prompting initial evacuation orders around Highway 166 in both counties. The National Interagency Fire Center reports the fire is only 5% contained.
Evacuation Zones and Road Closures
Mandatory evacuations are now in effect for areas near Upper Tepusquet Canyon (south of Highway 166), east of Willow Springs trailhead, and west of Cottonwood Canyon Road. Evacuation warnings, urging residents to prepare for potential evacuation, are in place for Lower Tepusquet Canyon (north of Sisquoc River) and areas west of School House Road. Highway 166 is closed between Highway 101 and Highway 33.
Firefighting Efforts Underway
Over 560 fire personnel are on scene, working to establish containment lines. Crews are focusing on the southern perimeter along La Brea Road, utilizing existing containment lines on the eastern edge from Miranda Pine Mountain to Cuyama Valley. Dozer lines are being constructed on the western flank to prevent the fire from spreading northward into the Manchesina Wilderness.
Santa Barbara County Fire Department Captain Scott Safechuck reports that 360 residences are threatened, particularly near School House and Cottonwood Canyons. Hot, dry conditions and onshore winds are expected to further challenge firefighting efforts.
Both ground and air resources have been deployed, with multiple agencies collaborating to combat the fire within Los Padres National Forest. The Santa Barbara County Air Pollution Control District has issued an Air Quality Watch for the entire county.
Stay tuned to Newsrpt.com for further updates on the California wildfires.