A fierce wildfire known as the Franklin Fire spread rapidly across Malibu early Tuesday, forcing extensive evacuations and threatening homes as firefighters struggled to contain the blaze.
The fire, driven by powerful Santa Ana winds, ignited near Malibu Canyon Road and rapidly expanded to over 2,200 acres by 7 am (local time) on Tuesday. According to the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection, there was no containment at that point.
As per the LA Times, evacuation orders were issued for the eastern half of Malibu, impacting about 6,000 people and 2,000 structures, while an additional 6,000 people were placed under evacuation warnings. Fire officials estimated that the fire was threatening 8,100 structures in total.
Firefighters on the ground, numbering around 700, were supported by aircraft that flew through the night to drop water on the flames. Los Angeles County fire chief Anthony Marrone emphasised the challenges posed by the winds, which were gusting at up to 80 mph.
Despite the efforts, containment lines were still being built as the fire moved rapidly, burning across both sides of the Pacific Coast Highway and forcing the closure of a six-mile stretch of the highway.
The fire’s intensity forced the evacuation of several areas, including Pepperdine University, located at the heart of the affected region. University officials issued a shelter-in-place order for students and staff, directing them to remain in designated safe areas like the campus library.
Pepperdine lifted the order after the worst fire had passed the campus, though spot fires continued to flare up. The university also cancelled classes and finals scheduled for Tuesday, while local schools in Malibu were also closed. According to a Pepperdine student, the experience of seeing flames approach the campus was terrifying, despite the safety measures in place.
In addition to Pepperdine, areas like Malibu Knolls Road and Sweetwater Canyon Drive saw damage to homes and structures. At one point, the fire was reported to be threatening the historic Malibu Pier, though it was ultimately spared from destruction.
The Franklin Fire has become one of the most dangerous fires in the region, fueled by dry conditions and low humidity.
The National Weather Service issued a “Particularly Dangerous Situation” red flag warning, with winds expected to continue through the day, exacerbating the already perilous situation. As of Tuesday morning, more than 3,500 customers were reported to be without power, with a public safety power shutoff in effect due to the fire.
Firefighters, assisted by teams from neighbouring counties, are working tirelessly to protect lives and property as the situation continues to unfold.
The cause of the fire remains unclear, though the dry, windy conditions have made it particularly difficult to control.
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