The Gifford Fire in California has rapidly expanded, now affecting over 30,500 acres across Los Padres National Forest, prompting widespread evacuations and significant road closures, including along Highway 166. As firefighters from various regions, including Sacramento and Northern California, join efforts to combat the blaze, three individuals have reported injuries. The fire poses a serious threat, burning on both sides of the highway and nearing key areas such as Santa Maria and the Madre Fire burn scar. Local ranchers are grappling with the aftermath as conditions remain dire and the fire persists.