Fast-Growing Franklin Fire Disrupts Malibu, Prompting Evacuations, Power Outages, and School Closures

Malibu Faces New Brush Fire Threat

Malibu, California is currently battling a fast-growing brush fire known as the Franklin Fire. Firefighters are working hard to control the flames, which have resulted in evacuations and caused serious disruptions to local schools and Pepperdine University.

Fire Starts Late and Grows Quickly

The fire was first reported just before 11 PM on Monday night in the area of Malibu Canyon Road, north of the Pacific Coast Highway. Initially, it started on about 10 acres but has since exploded to over 3,000 acres by late Tuesday, according to fire officials.

Classes Cancelled and Shelter-in-Place Ordered

As a precaution, Pepperdine University has canceled all classes and finals for the day. In addition, a shelter-in-place order was put in place as flames were visible from the campus. The university informed students that they should stay in the Tyler Campus Center or Payson Library for their safety. The initial shelter-in-place order was lifted Tuesday morning but was reinstated at 4:30 PM due to ongoing fire activity.

Power Outages and Damaged Structures

By Monday night, tens of thousands of residents were affected by power outages as utility companies shut off electricity to prevent the winds from causing additional fires. The Santa Ana winds have posed a significant danger, with strong gusts that can damage electrical equipment, contributing to fire risks. As of Tuesday evening, at least seven structures have been destroyed and another eight damaged.

Evacuation Zones in Effect

The fire has prompted mandatory evacuation orders affecting around 6,000 residents and more than 2,000 structures. An additional evacuation warning covers about 12,500 people in over 6,000 structures. Areas marked for mandatory evacuation include regions east of Malibu Canyon Road and south of Piuma Road, along with the Serra Retreat area.

Firefighting Efforts Underway

Firefighters have been using helicopters and planes to combat the blaze, dropping water from nearby lakes including those at Pepperdine. Aerial surveys have shown some homes being engulfed in flames, though some properties managed to escape with only minor damage, thanks to these firefighting efforts.

Community Preparedness

Local residents believe that preparedness is key in these situations. For instance, one resident, Rosie Rains, recently trimmed her trees and cleared brush around her property. She had taken proactive steps to protect her home, such as using safer roofing materials, and this preparation has paid off as her home has been spared from damage.

Schools Closures Announced

As the situation unfolds, four schools in Malibu will remain closed on Wednesday and Thursday. The closed schools are Webster Elementary, Malibu Elementary, Malibu Middle, and Malibu High School. The Pepperdine community is advised to stay indoors for the safety of the students.

Future Updates Expected

As of now, fire officials report that activity around Pepperdine’s campus has greatly diminished, although small pockets of flames remain visible. University officials are expected to make an announcement about potentially lifting the shelter-in-place order on Wednesday morning.

The Franklin Fire continues to be a significant concern for Malibu and nearby communities. Residents and officials are working together to stay alert and prepared as firefighting efforts continue.