Over 1,000 Firefighters Battle Expanding Gifford Fire in Southern California

The Gifford Fire in Southern California has grown to over 23,000 acres and remains only 5% contained, threatening about 360 homes in Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo counties. More than 1,000 firefighters, including crews from the Sacramento area, are battling the blaze with evacuation orders in place for some communities near Highway 166. Hot, dry, and windy conditions are fueling the fire's growth, with smoke affecting residential areas and one person suffering burn injuries; two others were injured in a vehicle accident while fighting the fire. The American Red Cross has opened disaster relief centers to assist displaced residents with housing, medical, and mental health support. Fire officials urge residents to sign up for local emergency alerts due to the fire's spread across county lines, while the National Weather Service warns of elevated fire danger in Southern California amid continued gusty winds. The coordinated response underscores California’s mutual aid system bringing together multiple fire departments to protect lives and property.