Containment Continues on California Megafire, But Hundreds of Structures Threatened

Containment continues to increase on the biggest fire in California this year, which has been at “megafire” status for nearly a week.

The Gifford Fire, which is burning in two California counties, is now 41% contained. It has burned more than 130,000 acres—more than 200 square miles.

The fire still threatens more than 800 structures and has prompted hundreds of evacuations. Four structures have been confirmed destroyed.

The weather has helped firefighting efforts, but it may not continue to provide aid. Temperatures cooled on Wednesday, causing humidity to rise. But periods of gustier winds on Thursday night and Friday could bring elevated fire weather conditions, according to firefighting officials.

Nearly 5,000 personnel, 381 engines and 52 water tenders are taking part of the firefighting efforts.

Elsewhere in California, a fire broke out in Los Angeles County in a rural area near the Interstate 5 Freeway. The fire quickly grew to 400 acres and is only 5% contained. Mandatory evacuation orders were not in place, but area residents were being warned to be prepared to evacuate. The freeway was closed in both directions in the Castaic area.

Topics California