Gifford Fire destroys 72,000 acres as high wind warnings raise fears California blaze could grow

A fast-moving wildfire has torn across 72,000 acres in south-central California since the weekend, injuring three people, threatening hundreds of structures and prompting widespread evacuation orders.

Fueled by hot, dry conditions and gusty winds, the wildfire has been burning through parts of Los Padres National Forest in Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo counties since Friday. By Monday morning, it had burned nearly 50,000 acres, according to fire officials.

The fire, which is burning in a rural, agricultural region of the forest, was just three percent contained as of Tuesday morning, according to CA Fire.

Officials have issued “an immediate threat to life” warning over a dozen zones across the two counties to evacuate immediately.

Air operations are set to get underway to deploy “very significant water drops” along with the addition of two base camps on the North and East sides of the fire, the U.S. Forest Service said Monday night.

Highway 166 between Highway 101 and New Cuyama remains closed due to a series of smaller blazes, officials said.

The route is known for roadside fires caused by passing cars — but the cause of the fire remains under investigation.

At least three people have been injured, officials said. One person suffered serious burns and was taken to a hospital in Santa Maria, while two contractors were hospitalized after their vehicle rolled over.

Hundreds of residents have been ordered to evacuate as approximately 460 structures remain under threat (US Forest Service)

Hundreds of residents have been ordered to evacuate as approximately 460 structures remain under threat. Nearly 2,000 personnel, including 50 fire engines and aircraft, are working to contain the blaze.

Temperatures on Thursday and Friday will see 90 to 100 degrees, with increasing fire behavior, forest officials said.

The fire began as a series of smaller blazes along Highway 166, officials said (US Forest Service)

The National Weather Service has issued high wind warnings, with gusts of 15 to 25 miles per hour expected through Monday, raising fears that the fire could grow.

Officials say the flames could move east into areas recently charred by the Madre Fire, which burned more than 80,000 acres before being fully contained just last week.

Fire officials are urging residents in threatened areas to remain alert and follow evacuation instructions.