Image shows wildfire in Sierra Madre earlier this year

Fire expands to 50,000 acres as residents evacuate

The Guardian has reported that the Madre fire has become the largest wildfire in California so far this year, reaching over 50,000 acres by Thursday morning.

The fire broke out on Wednesday in San Luis Obispo County and spread rapidly through dry grasslands due to hot, windy conditions.

Evacuation orders were issued for areas near State Route 166 as the fire moved towards the Carrizo Plain National Monument, located about 125 miles northwest of Los Angeles.

According to Cal Fire, containment stood at 5 percent on Thursday morning.

The agency stated that more than 300 emergency personnel were responding to the fire.

Weather conditions increase fire risks

The National Weather Service reported that summer gusts were contributing to fire spread.

Meteorologist Ryan Kittell said: “The winds are pretty light during the day, but they do pick up pretty substantially in the afternoon and evening hours.

“Gusts could reach 40mph (64km/h) later in the day Thursday, posing new challenges for firefighters working in extreme heat.”

Temperatures in the affected area were forecast to approach 100F (37C) on Thursday afternoon.

These conditions follow a dry winter and warm spring, which have increased fire risk across the state, particularly in the lead-up to the Fourth of July holiday.

Governor outlines enforcement and prevention measures

According to a statement from the office of California Governor Gavin Newsom, fireworks, campfires and faulty equipment account for 95 percent of wildfires in the state.

Newsom’s office said: “With Fourth of July celebrations set to go off, Governor Newsom and state fire officials remind all Californians that the state has no tolerance for illegal fireworks.”

More than 600,000 pounds of illegal fireworks have been confiscated in 2025.

The statement added that fireworks without the “Office of the State Fire Marshal Safe and Sane” seal are prohibited in areas where fireworks are banned.

Violators could face fines up to $50,000 and up to one year in jail.

California prepares for peak holiday weekend activity

The California Highway Patrol will implement a Holiday Enforcement Period starting 6:01 p.m. on Thursday, 3 July through 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, 6 July.

The enforcement period is designed to monitor for impaired and distracted driving.

During the 2024 holiday period, 29 deaths occurred on California roads, and the CHP made 1,336 DUI arrests.

Authorities have advised residents to avoid outdoor activities during peak heat hours and to stay hydrated.

The CalHeatScore tool was launched to issue localised alerts during extreme heat events.

Public safety guidance issued ahead of celebrations

California officials have asked residents to follow emergency preparedness guidance throughout the holiday period.

Listos California encourages residents to sign up for emergency alerts and consult the Disaster Ready Guide.

State parks have advised visitors to stay on trails, properly extinguish campfires, and pack out waste.

Additional safety advice includes carrying food and water, checking forecasts, supervising children near water, and wearing insect protection.

Officials reminded residents never to leave children or pets unattended in vehicles during high temperatures.

Madre fire spreads in California amid July heat: Summary

The Guardian has reported that the Madre fire has reached over 50,000 acres.

The fire is burning in San Luis Obispo County.

Cal Fire stated that the fire began on Wednesday.

Containment was at 5 percent on Thursday morning.

Evacuations were ordered near State Route 166.

The fire is moving towards Carrizo Plain National Monument.

The National Weather Service reported that gusts could reach 40mph.

Temperatures are expected to reach 100F.

More than 300 personnel are responding to the fire.

Governor Gavin Newsom’s office has warned about illegal fireworks.

95 percent of wildfires in California are caused by human activity.

Over 600,000 pounds of illegal fireworks have been seized in 2025.

Violations may result in fines up to $50,000 or jail time.

The California Highway Patrol is implementing a holiday enforcement period.

CalHeatScore is providing alerts during heatwaves.

Residents are advised to sign up for emergency alerts.

The Disaster Ready Guide is available online.

Outdoor safety advice has been issued by California State Parks.

Children and pets should not be left in hot vehicles.