A fast-moving wildfire in California, named the Franklin Fire, has scorched more than 2,500 acres along the Pacific coastline, including parts of Malibu, prompting widespread evacuations and sending over 800 firefighters to battle the blaze.
The fire, which started late Monday night near South Malibu Canyon Road, had not been contained by Tuesday afternoon, according to the Los Angeles County Fire Department and Cal Fire. The exact cause of the fire remains under investigation. The blaze has been so intense that local weather conditions are being altered, with the flames reportedly “bending” 40-mph winds toward the fire, according to the National Weather Service.
In an effort to reduce the risk of additional fires, power was shut off to approximately 40,000 customers in the affected region Monday night. The power outages are intended to prevent sparks from electrical equipment that could further fuel the wildfire.
Pepperdine University, located in Malibu, cancelled all classes for Tuesday, and a shelter-in-place order issued Monday night was lifted Tuesday morning. Meanwhile, evacuation orders were issued for areas east of Malibu Canyon Road and south of Piuma Road, affecting 18,000 residents and 8,100 homes and businesses. Los Angeles County Sheriff Robert Luna confirmed these figures during a press briefing on Tuesday.
Fire officials also reported that a “minimal number” of homes have been destroyed, with efforts underway to gain containment of the fire. Los Angeles County Fire Chief Anthony Marrone said containment was expected by Tuesday afternoon.
California Governor Gavin Newsom urged residents in affected areas to stay vigilant and adhere to evacuation orders, emphasizing the tireless work of firefighters and first responders. “Fire officials and first responders are working relentlessly to protect lives and property,” Newsom said in a statement. “I urge all residents in affected areas to stay alert and follow evacuation orders.”
As the fire continues to spread, authorities are focused on protecting lives and minimizing damage in one of California’s most vulnerable regions. With the fire still uncontained, residents remain on high alert as the situation develops.