A wildfire, dubbed the Madre fire, has exploded to nearly 80,000 acres in San Luis Obispo County, California, becoming the state's largest fire this year. Started Wednesday, the blaze threatens the Carrizo Plain National Monument and has prompted mandatory evacuations for over 200 people. Over 600 firefighters and numerous air tankers are battling the fire, which is currently 10% contained. The cause remains under investigation, with heat and wind fueling the rapid spread. An upcoming heatwave raises further fire concerns.

Prepared by Olivia Bennett and reviewed by editorial team.