California Wildfire Scorches 72,000+ Acres as Crews Struggle to Contain Fast-Moving Blaze
Solvang, CA — A massive wildfire known as the Gifford Fire has burned through more than 72,000 acres across Central California and remains just 3% contained as of Monday morning, according to Cal Fire officials.
The fire broke out Friday afternoon in Los Padres National Forest and has rapidly spread due to intense heat, dry vegetation, and difficult terrain. Over 1,000 firefighters are battling the blaze, which has put at least 460 structures at risk.
Strong winds and steep canyons have accelerated the fire’s spread, with officials warning of extreme fire behavior…
