California’s Gifford Fire Develops into ‘Mega Fire’ Status
Updated on: August 11, 2025, 12:34 PM PDT
The Gifford Fire, which ignited in California’s Central Coast region within Santa Barbara County, has officially reached ‘mega fire’ status, making it the largest wildfire in California for the year 2025. As reported on Monday afternoon, the fire has scorched over 119,214 acres and is currently 33% contained, with more than 4,000 firefighting personnel bravely combating the massive blaze, according to Cal Fire.
Fire Overview
This wildfire is spreading through the rugged Garcia Wilderness area of the Los Padres National Forest, posing a significant threat to nearly 3,000 structures. Flames have been fervently sweeping across challenging terrain around Santa Maria, leading to mandatory evacuations and putting local communities and wildlife at risk.
According to the California Interagency Incident Management Team 5 (CIIMT 5), the fire is advancing toward the Huasna Valley, impacting nearby communities such as Arroyo Grande, San Luis Obispo, Santa Margarita, and Carrizo Plains. Thankfully, firefighting crews are making progress in reinforcement activities along key locations including Avenales Ranch Road and the Salinas River bed.
Containment Strategies
In a strategic move, teams are preparing to initiate a 36-hour firing operation designed to reduce flamable vegetation ahead of the fire’s path. Incident meteorologists will assist by providing tailored weather updates to inform firefighting efforts. The fire’s origin traces back to August 1, 2025, when it began around 3:44 PM near Highway 166 close to Gifford Trailhead, where initial responders quickly identified over 800 acres at risk within minutes.
Understanding a ‘Mega Fire’
The term ‘mega fire’ is designated for wildfires that consume over 100,000 acres. The Gifford Fire has surpassed this threshold and has been classified as the most extensive wildfire in California thus far this year.
Evacuation Orders and Support
As the Gifford Fire escalated, officials promptly enacted evacuation orders, which have since been broadened. Residents under evacuation warnings are advised to remain vigilant and prepared for immediate departure. Those requiring additional time for evacuation, including individuals with disabilities or large animals, are urged to leave as soon as possible.
To assist those affected, an evacuation center has been established at the New Life Student Center, located at 941 N. Oak Park Way, Pismo Beach. The American Red Cross is also on hand to offer support, reachable at 805-678-3073.
Animal Evacuation Facilities
Various animal shelters have been set up for both large and small animals:
- For Large Animals:
- County Animal Services Disaster Hotline: 805-681-4332
- Horse Emergency Evacuation Team (HEET): 805-466-7457
- Paso Robles Event Center, Equestrian Center
- Elks Rodeo Grounds, open for large animal evacuation
- For Small Animals:
- SLO County Animal Services: 875 Oklahoma Ave, San Luis Obispo, Call: 805-781-4800
- Locations in Santa Barbara County (closed at 6 PM):
- 548 W Foster Rd, Santa Maria
- 1501 W Central Ave, Lompoc
- 5473 Overpass Rd, Goleta
- 111 Commerce Dr, Buellton (open until 5 PM)
Current Road Closures
Due to the ongoing firefighting efforts, several roads remain closed including:
- Huasna Townsite south at Huasna
- Huasna Road, restricted to residents and essential traffic only
- Lopez at Orcutt, restricted access
- State Route 166 between US 101 in Santa Maria and Perkins Road in New Cuyama
Gifford Fire Progress Table
| Details | Statistics |
|---|---|
| Fire Name | Gifford Fire |
| Acres Burned | 119,214 acres |
| Containment Status | 33% |
| Firefighters Involved | 4,000+ |
| Structures Threatened | Approx. 3,000 |
