Malibu Residents Flee as Franklin Fire Ravages Over 2,851 Acres
The Franklin Fire, a fast-moving wildfire fueled by strong Santa Ana winds and unseasonably warm weather, has devastated the southern California city of Malibu, forcing thousands to evacuate their homes. The blaze, which began shortly before 11 p.m. on Monday, has already consumed more than 2,851 acres and prompted evacuation orders for over 6,000 residents, including celebrities like Dick Van Dyke, Mira Sorvino, and Cher.
Celebrity Evacuations Amid Growing Danger
At 98 years old, actor Dick Van Dyke was among those who left their homes, along with actress Mira Sorvino. Singer Cher also evacuated, seeking refuge in a hotel with her pets, as confirmed by her publicist, Liz Rosenberg. Cher expressed her gratitude for the firefighters on social media, emphasizing the resilience of the Malibu community.
Massive Firefighting Effort Underway
More than 800 firefighters have been deployed to combat the flames, working tirelessly in rugged terrain under Governor Gavin Newsom's direction. Despite their efforts, the fire remains uncontained, with authorities citing Red Flag conditions—a combination of low humidity, high winds, and dry vegetation—as contributing to the fire's rapid spread.
While the fire’s origin remains under investigation, officials have not ruled out natural causes or human activity. The Los Angeles County Fire Department is leading efforts to protect homes, lives, and critical infrastructure as the fire pushes southward.
Impact on the Malibu Community
The fire originated near Pepperdine University, forcing the institution to postpone final exams and implement a shelter-in-place order for students and staff. Although the order was briefly lifted, it was reinstated later due to shifting winds and the fire's proximity. All schools in the Malibu area remain closed until further notice.
Local officials reported that a “minimal” number of homes had been destroyed so far, though thousands of structures remain under threat in the evacuation zones. Residents in the impacted areas are urged to leave immediately if conditions worsen, as firefighting resources are stretched thin.
Red Flag Warnings Persist
Meteorologists have issued Red Flag warnings across Southern California, warning of heightened fire risk through Wednesday. Winds gusting up to 40 mph and the dry conditions characteristic of the region are likely to exacerbate the situation.
Community Resilience and Resources
Despite the challenges, the Malibu community has rallied to support those affected. Evacuation shelters have been established at the Palisades Recreation Center for displaced residents, while Pierce College has opened its facilities for large animals.
Governor Newsom announced additional state and federal resources, including fire management grants, to assist firefighting efforts.
Ongoing InvestigationAuthorities continue to investigate the cause of the Franklin Fire, which has already proven to be one of the most destructive late-year wildfires in recent memory.
This is a developing story, and updates will follow as new information becomes available.
