Gifford Fire in California expands to 82,000 acres, prompting evacuations in two counties.
A significant wildfire, known as the Gifford Fire, has erupted in Central California, consuming over 82,000 acres and threatening nearly 900 structures, officials reported on Tuesday. The fire commenced on Friday afternoon along State Route 166, approximately 30 miles east of Santa Maria, specifically near the Gifford Trailhead within the Santa Lucia Ranger District of Los Padres National Forest. Initial investigations indicate that four separate ignitions combined to form this extensive blaze.
The U.S. Forest Service has confirmed that at least three individuals have sustained injuries due to the rapidly spreading fire. Two contract workers aiding firefighters were injured when their vehicle overturned. Additionally, a motorist was hospitalized with burn injuries after attempting to escape his engulfed vehicle.
In response to the fire’s rapid escalation, more than 1,900 personnel have been deployed to combat the flames. This situation has necessitated evacuation orders and warnings in various areas of Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo counties. As of Tuesday afternoon, containment efforts have been modest, with only about 7% of the fire reportedly controlled, as reported by the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection, also known as Cal Fire.
The challenging terrain contributes to the complexities of firefighting efforts, as firefighters contend with steep and largely inaccessible areas, where even bulldozers struggle to reach. Capt. Scott Safechuck, a spokesperson for the Santa Barbara County Fire Department, emphasized the difficulty in accessing certain regions, prompting the deployment of an air tanker to assist in the firefighting efforts.
Moreover, the fire has led to the closure of Highway 166 from Highway 101 to New Cuyama to ensure public safety. The cause of the blaze remains under investigation as authorities work to determine the origin of the fire.
As officials continue to monitor the situation closely, the impact of the Gifford Fire remains a pressing concern for local communities and the surrounding environment. Firefighters remain committed to controlling the blaze and protecting lives and property.
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