Southern California Megafire Nears San Luis Obispo in Wine Country

The Gifford Fire in Santa Barbara County grew to 122,000 acres overnight, fire officials reported.
Southern California Megafire Nears San Luis Obispo in Wine Country
Fire crews worked to contain the Gifford Fire in Santa Barbara County on Aug. 11, 2025. U.S. Forest Service
|Updated:
0:00

A Southern California wildfire in Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo counties has reached “megafire” status after reaching over 122,000 acres Aug. 12, becoming the state’s largest fire this year.

The Gifford Fire has destroyed four homes and injured seven people—including four civilians--since it ignited on Aug. 1, according to the U.S. Forest Service.

Jill McLaughlin
Jill McLaughlin
Author
Jill McLaughlin is an award-winning journalist covering politics, environment, and statewide issues. She has been a reporter and editor for newspapers in Oregon, Nevada, and New Mexico. Jill was born in Yosemite National Park and enjoys the majestic outdoors, traveling, golfing, and hiking.