The Madre fire has burned nearly 71,000 acres in San Luis Obispo County and threatens residents and homes. The largest wildfire in California this year has grown to 70,800 acres in San Luis Obispo County and poses an immediate threat to life, according to the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection.

A massive California wildfire has prompted evacuation orders and a highway closure. The Madre Fire ignited Wednesday afternoon in San Luis Obispo County, according to Cal Fire. It has since grown to 70,800 acres in less than 72 hours and is 10% contained as of Friday evening, fire officials said.