California Wildfire Spreads Rapidly, Leaves 3 Injured and Communities at Risk

Out-of-Control Wildfire Tears Through Central California, Injures 3, Threatens Hundreds of Homes.

A fast-moving wildfire in central California has scorched over 260 square kilometers of land across Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo counties, injuring three people and threatening more than 450 structures, officials said Monday. Dubbed the Gifford Fire, the blaze is burning out of control in the Los Padres National Forest and has forced the closure of key routes, including State Route 166 east of Santa Maria. More than 1,000 firefighters are battling the flames amid scorching temperatures, rugged terrain, and shifting winds.

Among the injured is a motorist who suffered burns after flames overtook his vehicle. Two contract workers were also hurt when their ATV overturned while assisting fire crews. The fire, which erupted from at least four smaller blazes on Friday, is devouring dry brush and chaparral and racing up steep hillsides. Aircraft have been deployed for water drops as ranchers evacuate cattle from threatened areas.

Firefighters are bracing for worsening conditions as winds are expected to intensify. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.