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Reinforced Crews Boost Containment of Madre Fire as It Surpasses 80,000 Acres

Mandatory evacuations in San Luis Obispo County highlight the fire’s persistent threat to communities under smoky skies.

U.S. Forest Service firefighter Kai Montes battles the Madre Fire along Highway 166 in San Luis Obispo County on Thursday.
A firefighter battles the Madre Fire along Highway 166 in San Luis Obispo County on Thursday.
A helicopter drops water on the Madre Fire as it burns along Highway 166 in San Luis Obispo County on Thursday. 
A firefighter battles the Madre Fire as it makes a run along Highway 166, Thursday, July 3, 2025, in San Luis Obispo County, Calif. (AP Photo/Noah Berger)

Overview

  • The Madre Fire has scorched more than 80,480 acres and fire managers report containment has risen to 30 percent.
  • Nearly 1,500 personnel supported by over 75 engines, 28 water tenders, 23 dozers and 16 helicopters remain engaged in suppression efforts.
  • Mandatory evacuation orders cover more than 200 residents and at least 50 structures remain under threat in rural zones.
  • Investigators continue to probe the fire’s origin after it ignited Wednesday near State Route 166 in hot, windy conditions.
  • Smoke drift into metropolitan Los Angeles has prompted regional air quality advisories.