Gifford Fire Burns Nearly 40,000 Acres in Santa Barbara County

The Gifford Fire continues to rage in Santa Barbara County, scorching nearly 40,000 acres within just 48 hours and threatening residential areas near Highway 166.

Fueled by hot, dry, and windy conditions, the fire has grown rapidly, producing a rare and dangerous smoke tornado over the weekend. Embers from the blaze have sparked smaller fires dangerously close to livestock and structures, though no buildings have been lost as of now.

Scott Safechuck with Santa Barbara County Fire says the fire initially spread across both sides of Highway 166 and into San Luis Obispo County, but the majority of the growth is now concentrated in the southern edge, near the Tepusquet area.

While older burn scars from the Madre Fire to the east were hoped to act as natural barriers, Safechuck says they’ve provided little benefit due to the fire's current trajectory.

Three people have been injured so far—one suffered burn injuries, and two contractors were hurt after their UTV rolled down a hillside.

The American Red Cross has set up disaster relief centers in Santa Maria and Cuyama, offering mental health assistance, shelter, and medical resources for those affected. Residents are encouraged to visit the Red Cross website for updates on shelter locations and emergency support.

Authorities stress the importance of signing up for county-specific emergency alerts, especially with the fire spanning two counties and evolving rapidly.

The cause of the Gifford Fire remains under investigation.

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