SANTA BARBARA COUNTY (KABC) — Firefighters are trying to gain control of the Gifford Fire in Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo counties.
The blaze is just 3% percent contained and has significantly increased in size since Saturday. It has scorched almost 50,000 acres in Los Padres National Forest, according to fire officials.
The wildfire started two days ago as several small fires along Highway 166, about 15 miles northeast of Santa Maria.
Fueled by dry conditions and warm weather, it grew into one massive blaze as it burns in steep and rugged terrain, according to fire officials. The terrain conditions are creating significant challenges for firefighting resources.
Three people have been injured and dozens of residents were forced to evacuate as the fire threatens at least 460 structures.
A temporary evacuation point is now open at Benjamin Foxen Elementary School located at 4949 Foxen Canyon Road, in Santa Maria.
Small domestic animals can be taken to the following locations:
— 548 W. Foster Road, Santa Maria (open until 6 p.m.)
— 1501 W. Central Avenue, Lompoc (open until 6 p.m.)
— 5473 Overpass Road, Goleta (open until 6 p.m.)
— 111 Commerce Drive, Buellton (open to 5 p.m.)
For large animals, call the County Animal Services Disaster Hotline at 805-681-4332.
For evacuation information and emergency maps, visit ReadySBC.org and/or EmergencySLO.org.
Highway 166 remains fully closed between Highway 101 and New Cuyama. Motorists are advised to avoid the area.
The cause of the fire is under investigation.
