The Rosa Fire has recently engulfed areas along Highway 74A near the Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains National Monument, releasing significant smoke and flame retardant as of August 4, 2025. In tandem with this, the Gifford Fire in California has escalated to nearly 84,000 acres, becoming the state’s largest wildfire of the year by August 6, with only 9% containment reported by Cal Fire.
The Gifford Fire, located within Los Padres National Forest and near Santa Maria in Santa Barbara County, threatens over 800 structures and has resulted in injuries to three individuals, including one with burn injuries. This wildfire has led to evacuation orders in Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo counties. As conditions worsen, temperatures are expected to rise into the triple digits, increasing fire behavior throughout the week.
The Gifford Fire started on August 1, following reports of multiple wildfires along Highway 166 west of Cuyama. The cause remains under investigation. This fire is notable not just for its size but also for its proximity to the burn scar of the earlier Madre Fire, which impacted over 80,000 acres in San Luis Obispo County in July.
Additionally, as of August 4, at least seven smaller wildfires erupted across California, highlighting the ongoing challenges within the region. Officials have anticipated above-normal large fire activity throughout July and August, exacerbating the situation for firefighters and communities alike. The unfolding events underscore the severe wildfire risk currently facing Southern California.
