The largest wildfire in California this year, burning in the central part of the state, is threatening communities and causing significant air quality issues across the region.
According to reports, the Gifford Fire has consumed 117,524 acres across San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara counties and, as of Sunday afternoon, remains only 32% contained.
The fire started on August 1 and resulted in widespread evacuation orders, with nearly 3,600 firefighters battling the flames amid hot, dry conditions. According to The Fresno Bee, fire response efforts include nearly 100 hand crews, 267 engines, 98 water tenders, 21 helicopters, and 142 bulldozers.
Santa Barbara County Fire Department Capt. Scott Safechuck said, “We have hot weather, and we have low relative humidity,” which prompted the blaze’s “extreme” behavior.
The damage caused by the Gifford Fire has already exceeded that of last month’s Madre Fire in San Luis Obispo County, which burned 80,000 acres before being contained.
According to reports, at least three people have been injured. One civilian sustained burn injuries and was hospitalized, while two private contractors were hurt when their UTV rolled over during firefighting activities. They are now all in stable condition.
Meanwhile, air quality has worsened in surrounding areas. The Santa Barbara County Air Pollution Control District issued an alert for Cuyama, warning residents to stay indoors, avoid strenuous activity, and use air purifiers or N95 masks when needed—especially those with respiratory conditions, seniors, and pregnant individuals.
The Los Padres National Forest is closed until February 8, 2026, to protect public safety and natural resources. This includes the whole Santa Lucia Ranger District and a section of the Mount Pinos Ranger District, according to KSBY. Also, Highway 166 remains closed between Highway 101 and New Cuyama.
Besides the Gifford Fire, two more fires started, the Rosa Fire in Riverside County and the Gold Fire in San Bernardino County.
Officials are still investigating what sparked the Gifford Fire. Meanwhile, crews are working around the clock to reinforce containment lines, deploy aircraft for water drops, and protect homes in danger.
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