The Gifford Fire has exploded to over 39,000 acres, forcing widespread evacuations in San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara counties and injuring three individuals. The fast-moving wildfire, which began Friday afternoon near Highway 166 west of Cuyama, remains only 5% contained as of Saturday evening.
Clouds, haze, or smoke? Yes.
Grey skies today are from a combination of cirrus clouds moving in from the Pacific, & smoke aloft from the Gifford Fire in SLO/SB counties. Both are thin & hard to see on satellite, but differences in color & direction allow us to differentiate them. pic.twitter.com/gQuwbcQhGV— NWS San Diego (@NWSSanDiego) August 3, 2025
Gifford Fire Status: Over 39,000 Acres Burned, Minimal Containment
According to the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection, the Gifford Fire started as several small spot fires before merging into a massive blaze. Fueled by dry brush, low humidity, and intense sunlight, the fire continues to burn actively on both sides of Highway 166.
Firefighters are utilizing aerial tankers, helicopters, and ground crews to slow the fire’s progress and protect nearby communities.
#Giffordfire Fire Info
Watchduty linkhttps://t.co/6oVvwM78TI
Cal Fire linkhttps://t.co/zNNwIoOVpQ
Camera linkshttps://t.co/o7m8niFcMHhttps://t.co/sqaLHfIKabhttps://t.co/boW2feEGo6
Firewatch 43,118 Acre perimeter image @ 10:30 ish 08/03/2025
Image Orbit on Google earth Click… pic.twitter.com/Vzh8ilTZDw— Max (@retirdude) August 3, 2025
Areas Affected by the Gifford Fire
The wildfire is currently threatening the following cities and regions:
- Cuyama, CA
- New Cuyama, CA
- Santa Maria, CA
- San Luis Obispo County
- Santa Barbara County
Multiple Evacuation Orders in Effect
Evacuation orders have been issued for areas across Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo counties.
In Santa Barbara County, mandatory evacuations are in place for:
- East of Willow Springs Trailhead
- West of Cottonwood Canyon Road
- South of Highway 166
An air quality watch is in effect for the Cuyama area and surrounding regions.
🚧 Highway 166 is closed between Highway 101 and New Cuyama due to active fire conditions.
Three Injured in Gifford Fire, One Airlifted
Three people have been injured in the fire, according to the U.S. Forest Service:
- One civilian sustained serious burn injuries and was airlifted to a hospital.
- Two contractors were injured in a UTV rollover incident. One had minor injuries and was transported by ambulance. The other, with moderate injuries, was rescued by helicopter.
All three victims were taken to Marian Regional Medical Center in Santa Maria for treatment.
Animal Evacuation and Assistance Resources
GIFFORD FIRE – SM Elks Rodeo Grounds open for large animals for SB Co. Enter Morningside Drive Gate 2. For help transporting livestock 805-681-4332
County Animal Shelters continue to accept domestic/small animals. 548 W Foster Rd, SM. 1501 W Central Ave, LO. 5473 Overpass Rd, SB pic.twitter.com/qIKcozg6au— County of Santa Barbara Health Department (@SBCountyHealth) August 3, 2025
Evacuation centers and resources for both people and animals have been activated:
Large Animal Shelter:
- Santa Maria Elks Rodeo Grounds (enter via Morningside Drive Gate 2)
📞 Transport assistance: 805-681-4332
Small Animal Shelters:
- 548 W Foster Rd, Santa Maria
- 1501 W Central Ave, Lompoc
- 5473 Overpass Rd, Santa Barbara
Temporary Evacuation Centers
Evacuation points are open for displaced residents:
- Cuyama Valley Family Resource Center
4689 CA-166 B, New Cuyama, CA 93254 - Benjamin Foxen Elementary School
4949 Foxen Canyon Rd, Santa Maria, CA 93454
What’s Next?
Officials warn that the fire may continue to grow due to dry conditions and shifting winds. Crews are working around the clock to establish containment lines and protect lives and property.
Residents are urged to monitor local alerts, obey evacuation orders, and remain prepared for rapidly changing fire conditions.
