Temporary evacuation sites were established at Benjamin Foxen Elementary School in Santa Maria and the Cuyama Valley Family Resource Center in New Cuyama, Cal Fire said. The agency also reported that Highway 166 was closed between Highway 101 and New Cuyama.

Fire managers for the U.S. Forest Service put Gifford at 49,761 acres (77 square miles), with 3% containment. Three people were reported injured: a civilian who was burned, and two contractors who were injured in an off-road utility vehicle’s rollover.

Over 1,000 firefighters continue to battle a wildfire in Southern California that has scorched over 65,000 acres, prompted evacuation orders and caused three injuries, according to officials.

Millions of Southern California residents are breathing unhealthy air due to a large wildfire in the Central Coast area. As of Monday morning, the Gifford Fire had scorched more than 65,000 acres in San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara counties with only limited containment.

The Gifford Fire has ravaged over 65,000 acres in Santa Barbara County, forcing hundreds to flee as flames rage uncontrollably. Fuelled by scorching heat, dry conditions, and fierce winds, the blaze remains only 3% contained,