California’s Largest Fire of the Year: Madre Blaze Expands to 70,800 Acres

Published On: July 7, 2025

California’s Largest Fire of the Year Madre Blaze Expands to 70,800 Acres

SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY, CA — A fast-moving wildfire in Central California, known as the Madre Fire, has exploded in size, reaching 70,800 acres as of Friday afternoon — making it the largest wildfire in California so far this year, according to Cal Fire.

The fire began on Wednesday in San Luis Obispo County and has grown rapidly due to dry conditions, rough terrain, and afternoon winds. Containment remains low at 10%.

Rapid Growth and Spread

The wildfire, which was just 200 acres when reported Wednesday afternoon, ballooned to 35,530 acres by Thursday morning, then surged to 54,000 acres Thursday night. Within 48 hours, it reached 110 square miles, overtaking the previous largest 2025 fires in Los Angeles County.

“With the current weather, terrain, and fuel conditions, this fire has seen exponential growth in less than 24 hours,” the U.S. Forest Service – Los Padres National Forest said on Thursday.

Evacuations, Closures, and Threats

Evacuation orders and warnings were issued across San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, and now Kern counties.
An evacuation center has been set up at the California Valley Community Services District.
50 structures are under threat.
The Carrizo Plain National Monument is closed to the public by the Bureau of Land Management.

No injuries or structural damage have been reported as of Friday.

Smoke Impacts Across Southern California

Though the fire is more than 125 miles northwest of Los Angeles, smoke has spread into Southern California, prompting the South Coast Air Quality Management District to issue an advisory for:

Santa Clarita
San Gabriel Valley
San Bernardino Mountains

Residents with respiratory conditions are advised to remain indoors.

Firefighting Efforts Underway

Over 600 firefighters are battling the blaze, supported by:

46 fire engines
14 hand crews
5 water tenders
4 helicopters
7 bulldozers

Afternoon and evening winds remain a challenge, but Friday’s forecast of 75°F, high humidity (81%), and calm winds offers some hope.

Fire Origin Under Investigation

The cause of the Madre Fire remains unknown, and officials are investigating. The fire is being managed jointly by Cal Fire, Bureau of Land Management, and the San Luis Obispo County Sheriff’s Office.

Stay Alert and Stay Safe

If you live near the affected counties:

Follow official evacuation updates
Sign up for local emergency alerts
Limit outdoor activity if you’re in a smoke-affected region

Need help evacuating or seeking shelter? Call 2-1-1 or your local sheriff’s office for assistance.

Have You Been Affected by the Madre Fire?

We want to hear from you. If you’re in San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, Tell us in the comment section of ridgecrestpact.org.

Doris Oliver

Doris Oliver is a proud Ridgecrest native with a deep passion for bringing local stories to light. With over 2 years of experience in community reporting, Doris has built a trusted voice in the Community. Her work focuses on covering the issues that matter most to Ridgecrest residents — from public safety and education to local government and community events. Driven by a belief that informed citizens make stronger communities, Doris is committed to delivering accurate, timely, and impactful news. Through ridgecrestpact.org, she aims to bridge the gap between people and the stories shaping their everyday lives — making local news accessible, engaging, and meaningful.