Franklin Fire Forces Thousands From Homes in Malibu, Celebrities Among Evacuees
A wind-driven wildfire, dubbed the Franklin Fire, has forced the evacuation of up to 20,000 people from their homes in Malibu and surrounding areas, including celebrities Cher and Dick Van Dyke, The Associated Press reports.
The fire, which erupted late Monday night, rapidly spread to 4.8 square miles (12.3 square kilometers) by Wednesday morning, with zero containment.
Over 1,500 firefighters from the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CalFire) are battling the blaze, aided by a forecast of improving weather conditions. While the strongest Santa Ana winds have subsided, gusty winds are expected to continue through Wednesday morning, particularly in the mountainous areas, maintaining critical fire conditions.
The fire’s rapid spread caused significant devastation in Malibu, a community renowned for its scenic beauty and celebrity residents. Flames threatened seaside mansions, horse farms, and Pepperdine University, where approximately 3,000 students were forced to shelter in place. While an early assessment suggests minimal structural damage to the university campus, the situation remains fluid.
Los Angeles County Fire Department Chief Anthony C. Marrone reported a preliminary estimate of seven structures destroyed and eight damaged. The intensity of the fire forced the relocation of Malibu City Hall to nearby Calabasas.
The fire’s cause remains under investigation. Its rapid southward trajectory saw it jump the Pacific Coast Highway and reach the ocean, threatening the historic Malibu Pier, which was ultimately saved. Approximately 40,000 customers experienced power outages as Southern California Edison proactively shut down service to mitigate the risk of wind-related damage and further wildfires.
This incident evokes memories of the devastating 2018 Woolsey Fire, which was linked to Southern California Edison equipment. While Malibu’s celebrity residents garner significant attention, Kasey Earnest, executive director of the Boys and Girls Club of Malibu, highlighted the concerns for lower- and middle-class families, ranchers, and farmers also impacted by the fire.
