A wildfire burning in Malibu, California, is 0% contained as of Tuesday evening after destroying at least seven buildings and forcing the evacuation of tens of thousands, according to Los Angeles County officials.
Known as the Franklin Fire, the flames burned more than 3,000 acres in about 24 hours and put nearly 20,000 people under evacuation orders and warnings.
Seven areas within city limits from the Pacific coast to the edge of the Malibu Canyon fire are under an evacuation order, which is an official order to evacuate immediately due to life-threatening conditions.
“More than 1,000 first responders from multiple agencies are on scene fighting the fire on the ground and in the air. Please heed evacuation orders and warnings,” the Los Angeles County Fire Department said on social media.
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Firefighters in Malibu, California, are working to contain the fast-moving Franklin Fire, which has burned more than 3,000 acres in about 24 hours. (LA County Fire Department photographer Doug Morrison)
At least seven buildings were destroyed in Malibu and at least eight others were damaged, according to the city of X. No injuries were reported at this time.
“Our thoughts are with all those affected by this terrible incident,” the city said in its lawsuit.
The fire caused the closure of Pacific Coast Highway between Topanga Canyon Boulevard and Kanan Dume Road, according to the California Highway Patrol. The road is only open to residents leaving the area and first responders.
There is also a heavy closure on Los Virgenes Road at Mulholland Highway, the CHP said.
In addition to firefighters, Los Angeles County Sheriff Robert Luna said more than 150 deputies were dispatched to help with road closures, evacuations and security.
There are heavy closures of several major highways in Malibu as firefighters work to contain the Franklin Fire. (LA County Fire Department photographer Doug Morrison)
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Firefighters were notified of a wildfire in Malibu Canyon near South Malibu Canyon Road and Francisco Ranch Road around 11 a.m. Monday.
FOX Weather reported that the fire quickly became dangerous due to strong Santa Ana winds, prompting a Red Flag Warning that will remain in effect until Wednesday afternoon.
“The entire fire area remains at risk as long as the red flag conditions continue,” LA County Fire Chief Anthony Marrone said. “Strong winds and low humidity continue to challenge firefighters on the line and in the air as they struggle to contain this fire.”
At least seven buildings were destroyed in Malibu and at least eight were damaged as of Tuesday evening, according to the city on X. (AP Photo/Jae C. Hong)
The fire also prompted Pepperdine University to issue a shelter-in-place order Wednesday morning, at which point school officials will reassess the situation in the community and discuss when to evacuate.
“The fire around the Pepperdine campus in Malibu has been reduced significantly as the Franklin fire has burned fuel near the campus, but some flames are still visible in small pockets of the campus.
“Firefighters continue to respond and put out hot spots and protect buildings. Early analysis shows no damage to the campus, and no injuries reported,” Pepperdine told X Tuesday night.
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Gov. Gavin Newsom announced the Fire Management Assistance Grant secured through FEMA “to help ensure the availability of critical fire suppression resources in Malibu.”
This grant will help local, state and tribal agencies responding to wildfires to apply for reimbursement of 75% of eligible firefighting costs.
“Fire officials and first responders are working tirelessly to protect lives and property from the Franklin fire,” Newsom said. “California is grateful for the federal support, which strengthens these efforts.”
FOX Weather contributed to this report.
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