UPDATE: An urgent air quality alert has just been issued as thick smoke from raging wildfires continues to engulf vast areas of California. The National Weather Service (NWS) warns that the smoke could pose serious health risks, including aggravated lung disease and increased respiratory infections.
As of September 4, 2025, the Gifford Fire near Santa Barbara has devoured 131,614 acres, earning its classification as a ‘megafire.’ Firefighters have made significant progress, with containment efforts nearing completion. In contrast, the Garnet Fire in Fresno has burned 33,821 acres and remains only 14 percent contained, escalating concerns among local residents.
The Valley Air District has confirmed that the air quality alert affects multiple counties, including San Joaquin, Stanislaus, Merced, Madera, Fresno, Kings, Tulare, and the Valley portion of Kern Counties. Residents are urged to exercise extreme caution as the alert remains in effect until the fires are fully extinguished.
The NWS cautions that exposure to wildfire smoke can lead to serious health complications. “People with heart or lung diseases should follow their doctors’ advice for managing episodes of unhealthy air quality,” officials stated. Additionally, children and older adults are advised to avoid strenuous activities and limit their time outdoors.
Officials are actively monitoring the situation, emphasizing that conditions could worsen. The NWS has advised residents to stay informed through local forecasts and to regularly check air quality updates at www.airnow.gov.
Residents living in affected areas are encouraged to contact their local San Joaquin Valley Air District offices for more information: Modesto at 209-557-6400, Fresno at 559-230-6000, and Bakersfield at 661-392-5500.
As California braces for further wildfire activity, which typically peaks in summer months, officials continue to respond to this ongoing crisis. Stay tuned for updates as this situation develops.