The Gifford Fire in central California has become the largest wildfire of 2025, threatening over 870 structures and covering 131 square miles with only 9% contained. Firefighters are facing extreme heat, with temperatures expected to reach over 100 degrees Fahrenheit, complicating firefighting efforts in steep terrain. The region has experienced little rainfall, contributing to dry conditions. More than 2,200 personnel are actively combating the fire, which originated from multiple smaller fires, leading to significant disruptions including route closures.
The Gifford Fire has grown to become the biggest fire in California for 2025, threatening over 870 homes with only 9% contained after burning 131 square miles. Firefighters are facing extreme conditions, with temperatures reaching up to 100 degrees Fahrenheit, complicating their efforts.
Capt. Scott Safechuck from the Santa Barbara County Fire Department noted, "We have hot weather, and we have low relative humidity. So we expect extreme fire behavior." This highlights the challenging conditions faced by firefighting crews in the area.
The National Weather Service for Los Angeles warned that wildfire risk will be elevated across much of inland California as the heat wave intensifies, worsened by very little rain leading to dry vegetation.
Over 2,200 personnel are currently engaged in battling the Gifford Fire, which originated from at least four smaller fires. These fires have forced closures on State Route 166, impacting travel and safety.
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