Santa Barbara County Fire

The Gifford Fire has burned more than 122,000 acres in San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara counties, and it's still about 20 miles from Santa Margarita.

The ongoing Gifford Fire in eastern San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara counties continues to spread as containment increases.

As firefighters battle the massive Gifford Fire on California’s Central Coast, they’re not just putting out flames—they’re making split second decisions that affect lives. One of the tough decisions? When to shut down a highway.

The Gifford Fire burning in San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara counties has scorched 82,567 acres and is 7% contained as of Tuesday morning, according to Los Padres Fire. The Madre Fire burned approximately 80,779 acres and was fully contained by July 26, according to CalFire.

Animal evacuation sites are open across Santa Barbara County as the Gifford Fire continues to burn.

Evacuation orders and warnings remain in parts of SLO and Santa Barbara counties. Residents are urged to monitor for changing conditions. Hwy 166 is closed between Hwy 101 and New Cuyama.

Disasters like wildfires, floods and earthquakes can be especially dangerous for animals. According to County officials, planning ahead could save your pet’s life.

The Santa Barbara County Fire Department, along with CAL FIRE and other agencies, have declared the start of this year’s High Fire Season.

For the first time, the state has designated parts of the city as fire hazard risk areas.

Firefighters from San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara have been helping battle massive wildfires in Los Angeles this month, but the job can take a toll. Heath experts say firefighters can face higher rates of physical and mental health issues.