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San Luis Obispo's Madre Fire Near New Cuyama Grows to 80,615 Acres, 35% Contained
ANTHONY SITE PHOTO
By Anthony W. Haddad
Published 2 months ago on
July 8, 2025

The Madre Fire near New Cuyama has burned more than 80,615 acres, injured one firefighter, and prompted multiple evacuation orders as crews work to contain the growing wildfire. (CalFire)

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A massive wildfire burning near Highway 166 in San Luis Obispo County has scorched more than 80,615 acres since it ignited on July 2, CalFire reported.

The Madre Fire, burning in rugged terrain near New Cuyama, remains active and only 35% contained as of 1:08 p.m. Tuesday.

One structure has been destroyed, 50 others are under threat, and one firefighter has been injured, officials said. No civilian injuries or fatalities have been reported.

The fire has grown only 12 acres since Monday evening, CalFire reports.

Evacuation Orders, Warnings

Evacuation orders have been issued for the following zones: LPF-017; SLC-226; SLC-240; SLC-263; SLC-264; SLC-265; SLC-298; SLC-299; SLC-300; SLC-312; SLC-313; SLC-337; SLC-338; SLC-339; and SLC-358.

Evacuation warnings are in effect for the following zones: SLC-225; SLC-239; SLC-266; SLC-301; SLC-359; SLC-365; SLC-366; and SLC-367.

In Santa Barbara County, evacuation warnings are in place for the area east of Rock Front, west of Cottonwood Canyon Road, and south of Highway 166.

Fire crews are using 84 engines, 31 water tenders, 16 helicopters, 19 bulldozers, and 35 hand crews to fight the flames. A total of 1,573 personnel are assigned to the fire, with numerous air tankers supporting suppression efforts as weather permits.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation.

For the latest evacuation updates, residents in San Luis Obispo County can visit ReadySLO, while Santa Barbara County updates are available through local emergency sites.

Motorists can find road closure information through Caltrans.

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Anthony W. Haddad,
Multimedia Journalist
Anthony W. Haddad, who graduated from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo with his undergraduate degree and attended Fresno State for a MBA, is the Swiss Army knife of GV Wire. He writes stories, manages social media, and represents the organization on the ground.

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