The Franklin Fire in Malibu continues to pose a significant threat as it consumes 3,893 acres and remains at 0% containment. Thousands of residents are under evacuation orders while fire crews work tirelessly to combat the flames.
The fire began late Monday night, and by Tuesday afternoon, it had already destroyed seven structures and damaged eight others. An estimated 18,000 individuals and over 8,100 buildings are currently affected, with 2,043 structures mandatorily evacuated and an additional 6,046 under evacuation warnings.
Due to the fire’s proximity, students at Pepperdine University were initially placed under a shelter-in-place order as the flames spread towards the campus. Although the worst of the fire passed by early Tuesday morning, power outages continued to hinder the community’s response efforts, leading to the re-issuance of the shelter-in-place protocol later in the day. Classes and finals have since been canceled for the remainder of the week.
Los Angeles County Fire officials noted the rapid spread of the fire was exacerbated by Santa Ana winds. Fortunately, there have been no reports of serious injuries or fatalities yet, though the situation remains dire. The California governor has announced the securing of a Fire Management Assistance Grant from FEMA to assist in firefighting efforts, which is a beacon of hope during this challenging time.
Authorities are advising residents to stay away from the Malibu area and are working diligently to facilitate evacuations and provide shelters for those displaced. The community has come together to support those affected, with emergency stations established to provide essential services.
Despite the ongoing threats posed by the fire and the hardships faced, the quick response from emergency services and community members illustrates the resilience of the Malibu community.
As we continue to monitor the situation, it is essential for residents to stay informed and heed all safety warnings. The Franklin Fire serves as a reminder of the importance of preparedness and the strength of community support in times of crisis.