BREAKING: A massive wildfire known as the Gifford Fire has erupted in Southern California, prompting urgent evacuation orders across 15 zones in Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo counties. The fire has exploded to nearly 49,761 acres and is only 3% contained, creating an immediate threat to life and property.
As of September 29, 2023, the Gifford Fire is actively burning on both sides of Highway 166, with an escalating danger on the southern side. Authorities report that smoke is visible throughout the region, making the air hazardous for residents.
Cal Fire has issued a clear and urgent directive: “This is a lawful order to LEAVE NOW. The area is lawfully closed to public access.” Residents are urged to evacuate immediately, with evacuation warnings also affecting 12 additional zones where conditions remain volatile.
In the wake of this disaster, three individuals have sustained injuries, including one civilian who was airlifted to Marian Regional Medical Center with burn injuries. Two contractors were also injured in a separate incident involving a UTV rollover. Firefighting resources, including air tankers and helicopters, are being deployed to combat the blaze in the rugged terrain.
For those in need of shelter, temporary evacuation points have been established at:
– Benjamin Foxen Elementary School, 4949 Foxen Canyon Rd, Santa Maria
– Cuyama Valley Family Resource Center, 4689 Highway 166, New Cuyama
These centers are providing relief from the heat and smoke, along with N95 masks and water bottles. Residents are advised to avoid travel in the area unless they are evacuating, as Highway 166 is closed between Highway 101 and the southern junction of Highway 33.
For assistance with evacuating large animals, residents can contact the County Animal Services Disaster Hotline at 805-681-4332. Small animal evacuation services are available at several locations until 6 PM today, including:
– 548 W Foster Rd, Santa Maria
– 1501 W Central Ave, Lompoc
– 5473 Overpass Rd, Goleta
The situation remains critical as firefighters battle the flames and residents face the urgency of evacuation. With air quality deteriorating, the Santa Barbara County Air Pollution Control District has issued an Air Quality Alert for the Cuyama area and an Air Quality Watch for the remainder of Santa Barbara County.
Stay tuned for further updates as this story develops.