The Gifford Fire grew to 96,106 acres with 15% containment as of Thursday morning, CalFire reported.

It is the largest wildfire in California so far this year, surpassing the nearby Madre Fire, which burned 80,779 acres.

Late Wednesday night, officials confirmed that three civilians and four firefighters have been injured since the blaze began. They also said 1,515 structures are threatened.

Officials also reported Wednesday that 2,988 personnel are assigned to the Gifford Fire, including 202 engines, 18 water tenders, 19 helicopters, 101 dozers, 76 hand crews, and 498 other resources.

CalFire said the fire is burning on both sides of Highway 166, northeast of Santa Maria.

Evacuation Orders, Warnings

Mandatory evacuation orders remain in effect for multiple zones in San Luis Obispo a

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