The Franklin Fire, which ignited in the Malibu area on Monday night, has rapidly expanded to nearly 4,000 acres as of Wednesday morning. The fire, now burning 3,983 acres near Pepperdine University, is currently 7% contained, prompting significant evacuations and road closures in the region.
Evacuation orders have been issued for several neighborhoods, specifically for residents located south of Piuma Road, north of the Pacific Ocean coastline, east of Puerco Canyon Road/Corral Canyon Park, west of Los Flores Canyon Road, and those between the coastline and Tuna Canyon Park west of Tuna Canyon Road. Additionally, evacuation warnings have been extended to areas east of Trancas Canyon Road and Kanan Dune Road, west of Topanga Canyon Boulevard/Surfview Drive, south of Mulholland Highway, and north of the evacuation order boundary, which includes Topanga Zones 8 and 10.
In response to the dangerous conditions, students at Pepperdine University were previously advised to shelter in place; however, as of 6:55 a.m. on Wednesday, this directive was lifted. Active flames near the campus are being managed, with only a few spot fires and periodic hot spots reported. Meanwhile, all schools in the Santa Monica-Malibu School District will remain closed until Thursday.
Significant road closures have also been enacted in the area, affecting the Pacific Coast Highway between Topanga Canyon Boulevard and Kanan Dume Road, as well as Cold Canyon Road at Piuma Road, and several others. Full details on road closures can be accessed on the LA County Public Works website.
In terms of assistance for residents displaced by the fire, a shelter has been opened at the Palisade Rec Center for anyone seeking refuge, including displaced pets in carriers. Additional shelters for small animals are available at the Agoura Animal Care Center and for larger animals at Pierce College.
While the fire presents a serious challenge, the response from local authorities and the community, including the establishment of shelters and ongoing fire management, underscores the resilience and solidarity of those affected. With pinpointed efforts to control the blaze and provide for displaced individuals and families, there remains hope for a swift resolution to this crisis.
For those in the area, staying updated and adhering to evacuation orders is critical for safety.