Gifford Fire threatens 800+ structures in Santa Barbara, San Luis Obispo counties
Nearly 2,000 firefighters continue to battle a wildfire in Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo counties that threatens more than 800 structures and has caused three injuries.
The Gifford Fire, which began on Friday afternoon, is situated within the Los Padres National Forest in Solvang, California, officials said. As of Tuesday morning, the fire has burned 82,567 acres and is only 7% contained, according to Cal Fire.
Three people have been injured by the wildfire, including one civilian who was hospitalized for burn injuries and two contractor employees who were injured in a UTV rollover incident, officials said on Saturday.
The cause of the fire is under investigation, according to Cal Fire.
Map of Gifford Fire burning in Santa Barbara County
While the flames have been centered around thick brush and rugged terrain, officials said 872 structures are threatened by the wildfire.
Evacuation orders and warnings are in effect for areas in Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo counties, and Highway 166 has been closed due to flames burning on both sides of the road, officials said.
The fire is located west of the Madre Fire, which burned over 80,000 acres and was fully contained on July 26, officials said.
Gifford Fire smoke impacts air quality in Santa Barbara County
An air quality alert in Cuyama, California, and an air quality watch for the rest of Santa Barbara County will remain in effect “until conditions improve,” the Santa Barbara County Air Pollution Control District said on Saturday.
“If you see or smell smoke in the air, be cautious and use common sense to protect your and your family’s health. Everyone, especially people with heart or lung conditions, older adults, pregnant women and children, should limit time spent outdoors and avoid outdoor exercise when high concentrations of smoke and particles are in the air,” the air pollution control district said.
Other wildfires in Southern California
Two more fires erupted in Southern California on Monday afternoon.
The Rosa Fire in Riverside County started just after noon and has burned over 1,200 acres.
In San Bernardino County, the Gold Fire has spread 348 acres with 0% containment.
ABC News contributed to this report.
