A significant wildfire, known as the Franklin Fire, is currently engulfing the Malibu area, having expanded to nearly 4,000 acres as of Wednesday. Reports from Cal Fire indicate that the blaze erupted on Monday night and escalated to over 2,000 acres by Tuesday. As of Wednesday morning, the fire had scorched 3,983 acres and was approximately 7% contained.
LA County Fire Chief Anthony C. Marrone emphasized the dedication of firefighting crews, stating, “Crews are working tirelessly around the clock to establish containment lines and defend structures.” He noted an uptick in fire activity along the western edge, particularly affecting Corral Canyon.
The fire poses a threat to a nearby RV community, prompting the evacuation of thousands of residents. As of now, about 19,982 residents and 7,560 structures are under evacuation orders. LA County Sheriff Robert Luna commended the residents for their response to the evacuation directives, stating they have performed admirably.
Fortunately, there have been no reported injuries, although the flames have damaged nine structures and destroyed seven. Firefighters are expected to provide an update on the extent of structural damage later in the day.
In addition to road and school closures, shelters have been set up in the region for displaced residents and their pets. Approximately 1,500 firefighters are engaged in efforts to control the wind-driven fire, which is being challenged by Santa Ana winds. A red flag warning that was in effect earlier has since expired.
Wildfire season continues to be a pressing concern in California, with the Franklin Fire being one of over 7,600 wildfires reported this year. Comparatively, this time last year, there were more than 6,400 wildfires, contributing to a staggering total of over 1 million acres burned in California in 2024, significantly outpacing the previous year’s statistics.
Despite the challenges posed by the wildfire, the community’s swift response and the relentless efforts of firefighting crews are commendable, highlighting resilience in the face of adversity. As the situation develops, ongoing efforts to contain the fire and protect residents remain at the forefront of the response.
Overall, this incident serves as a reminder of the critical need for preparedness and the importance of community collaboration during emergencies.