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Franklin Fire in Malibu Forces Thousands to Evacuate, Structures Destroyed

Image: NBC Los Angels

Malibu, California – A rapidly spreading wildfire, dubbed the Franklin Fire, has forced the evacuation of thousands of residents in the Malibu area. The blaze, fueled by strong Santa Ana winds, erupted late Monday evening and has since consumed over 2,800 acres. As of Tuesday morning, seven structures have been confirmed destroyed, and at least eight others sustained significant damage.

Mass Evacuations Underway

Approximately 20,000 residents have been ordered to evacuate as the fire advances unpredictably. Among the evacuees are celebrities and long-time Malibu residents, including Dick Van Dyke and Cher. Evacuation centers have been set up in nearby areas to accommodate displaced families, while officials emphasize the urgency of adhering to evacuation orders to ensure public safety.

Firefighters Battling Challenging Conditions

More than 1,500 firefighters have been deployed to combat the fire, utilizing ground crews, helicopters, and fixed-wing aircraft. Despite their efforts, containment remains at zero percent due to high winds reaching up to 40 mph, which continue to fan the flames and spread the fire to new areas.

The National Weather Service has issued a red flag warning, cautioning that the strong wind conditions are expected to persist through Wednesday. These conditions make containment efforts increasingly difficult and further threaten thousands of homes and businesses in the fire’s path.

Infrastructure and Power Outages

The fire has caused widespread disruptions, including power outages affecting nearly 40,000 customers as utility companies shut down power lines to prevent further ignitions. Major thoroughfares, such as the Pacific Coast Highway, have also been closed, hindering travel and emergency response operations.

Community Response and Assistance

Emergency shelters have been activated to provide refuge for evacuees, while local organizations and volunteers are mobilizing to offer aid. Inspection teams are working to assess the full extent of the damage, and residents are advised to monitor updates from official sources.

A Stark Reminder of Past Wildfires

The Franklin Fire draws parallels to the devastating 2018 Woolsey Fire, which similarly ravaged the Malibu area. This ongoing incident underscores the region’s susceptibility to wildfires and the importance of proactive fire management strategies.

Residents are urged to stay vigilant, follow evacuation orders, and prioritize safety as the battle against the Franklin Fire continues. Updates will be provided as new information becomes available.