The Gifford Fire, which started on August 1. It has ignited one of the largest wildfire combatting operations in the history of Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo counties. As of Sunday, the fire was 32% contained, according to firefighters. So far, it has already scorched more than 180 square miles (or 466 square kilometers) of land. Suppression efforts to bring the fiery early-season flame under control take place against a backdrop of unprecedented environmental devastation.
The Lee Fire near Durango, Colorado is considered an immediate danger. Having burned 400,000 acres, it is now the sixth-largest single fire in the state’s history. This very active fire is burning about 250 miles (400 kilometers) northwest of Denver. It has so far consumed more than 167 square miles (433 square kilometers) of land and is just 6% contained. More than one thousand firefighters are currently on the frontlines of this massive fire. Their advocacy shows the significant need and lack of resources in the area.
The Elk Fire is still burning intensely to the east of the Lee. To date it has burned an area the size of 23 square miles, or 60 square kilometers. The fire only adds to the challenges that Colorado faces right now. Evacuation orders and air quality warnings have already been issued due to the smoke and perilous conditions created by these wildfires.
The canyon Fire started close to the Los Angeles and Ventura county line, and burned over 8 square miles (20 square kilometers). Firefighters have today achieved fantastic progress with the blaze now at 62% containment. The fire, which has led to widespread evacuations, has destroyed seven structures. This dire circumstance underscores the tremendous toll that wildfires are taking on our communities.