The Gifford Fire has expanded to an alarming 83,933 acres and is currently 7 percent contained, as reported by Inciweb. Fire officials are holding a community meeting at the Cuyama Valley Family Resource Center on August 6 from 7 to 8 p.m., where they will discuss the latest developments and address community concerns regarding the fire. For those unable to attend, the meeting will be recorded and made available on the Los Padres National Forest’s social media channels.
Initially sparked on Friday as multiple fires along State Route 166, the Gifford Fire has now surpassed the previously largest wildfire this year, the Madre Fire, which burned 80,779 acres. While 872 structures remain at risk, firefighters have made significant progress on the fire’s western, northern, and eastern fronts, aided by effective line construction. However, the fire continues to push southward, leading to smoke and ash fallout that is impacting air quality throughout the Central Coast region.
New evacuation warnings were issued for areas north of Foxen Canyon Road, east of Tepusquet Road, and west of Zaca Road on Tuesday morning. Residents can stay informed on evacuation status through ReadySBC.org and PrepareSLO.org.
Combatting the fire’s spread, resources deployed include 125 engines, 39 hand crews, 23 bulldozers, and 30 water tenders. Moreover, two additional base camps are being set up on the fire’s north and east sides to optimize personnel access. The Air Operations team expects to have 11 Type 1 and three Type 2 helicopters for aerial support, capable of delivering extensive water drops.
In response to health concerns due to declining air quality, N95 masks are being distributed free of charge at several locations, including the Hitching Post 2 Restaurant in Buellton and the Direct Relief Headquarters in Goleta.
For those in need of shelter, the American Red Cross can be contacted at (805) 678-3073. Temporary relief points, such as Benjamin Foxen Elementary School and the Cuyama Valley Family Resource Center, are equipped to provide resources like water bottles and masks.
Animal evacuation assistance is also available, with designated facilities for both large and small animals. The community’s cooperation and the ongoing firefighting efforts reflect a true collective strength in the face of this natural disaster.
The Gifford Fire situation serves as a reminder of the resilience that communities can display in times of crisis, as local resources and neighbors come together to support one another.