Malibu Braces for Fierce Wildfire as Franklin Fire Burns Out of Control
A ferocious wildfire, dubbed the Franklin fire, has erupted in Malibu, California, on early Tuesday morning, prompting widespread evacuations and sending residents scrambling for safety. The blaze, fueled by strong Santa Ana winds and bone-dry conditions, has already charred over 1,600 acres, with no containment as of this morning.
Communities Under Threat
Fueled by powerful winds, the Franklin fire is rapidly spreading, posing a significant threat to homes and lives. Most of Malibu’s eastern half has been placed under mandatory evacuation orders, with approximately 6,000 residents ordered to evacuate.
The fire has moved close to Pacific Coast Highway, prompting closures and further evacuations. Coastal areas, including Malibu Colony Drive and Malibu Road, are also under threat, adding to the growing list of those affected.
Areas like Serra Retreat, Malibu Pier, Malibu Village Mall, and City Hall are currently under mandatory evacuation orders, while a wider stretch of Pacific Coast Highway from Topanga Canyon to Zuma Beach is on high alert.
Explosion of Activity
The scene in Malibu is chaotic, with dramatic footage showing flames devouring the Malibu hills, palm trees tossed by strong winds.
Eyewitnesses describe a frantic evacuation effort, with some residents reporting finding their homes surrounded by fire and embers raining down. Animal evacuations are underway, with a temporary center set up at the Palisades Recreation Center.
Pepperdine Shelter-in-Place
Pepperdine University, located right in the heart of the evacuation zone, has implemented its shelter-in-place protocol for students and staff, directing them to the Tyler Campus Center or Payson Library.
While the campus shelters are considered the safest option, the fire’s proximity has raised concerns for some. Pepperdine has emphasized the safety measures in place, assuring the community that their buildings are fire-resistant and the surrounding area is cleared of brush.
Red Flag Warning Issued
The National Weather Service has issued a "Particularly Dangerous Situation" red flag warning for Los Angeles and Ventura counties due to the extreme fire risk.
Santa Ana winds, with gusts of up to 80 mph, are exacerbating the situation,
