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A big wildfire is burning out of control in central California, putting hundreds of homes at risk, as per a Reuters report. The fire, called the Gifford Fire, has already injured at least three people. The flames have destroyed over 100 square miles (about 260 square kilometers) of land across Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo counties. The fire is spreading fast through the Los Padres National Forest, known for its trees, hills, and farmlands. A major highway near Santa Maria has been closed in both directions and as per reports, around 450 buildings are in danger. (Photo Source: Associated Press)
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State’s response: The Gifford blaze prompted a statewide reaction from the authorities as more than 1,000 firefighters have been engaged to contain the flame. By Monday night, the fire was considered 5% contained, according to the CalFire state agency. (Photo Source: Reuters)
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Structural Closures: The blaze threatened about 450 structures and forced the closure of the highway in both directions east of Santa Maria, a city of about 110,000 people in Santa Barbara County. (Photo Source: Reuters)
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Helicopters deployed: Cattle ranches near the fire were forced to evacuate as the state authorities had engaged aircrafts to conduct water drops on rapidly spreading flames. (Photo Source: Reuters)
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Challenges faced: Officials from California’s interstate agency further reported that despite the authorities’ use of infrared equipment, the smoke from the fire was making it difficult for the aircrafts to successfully carry out the fire containment operation. (Photo Source: Associated Press)
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Potential challenges: The National Weather Service further predicted the gust to reach speeds of 25mph (40km/h) in the fire area marking difficulty for the firefighters. Additionally, the agency warned that a heatwave could exacerbate fire risks later this week, with temperatures to rise above 38 °C from Wednesday. (Photo Source: Associated Press)
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Area destroyed: The Gifford fire blazed through coastal Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo counties, located to the north of Los Angeles. The destroyed area hosted numerous live oaks and sycamore trees that supported the local wine industry. (Photo Source: Associated Press)
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