A forest fire burning in Malibu, California, It was 0% contained as of Tuesday evening after at least seven structures were destroyed and tens of thousands were issued mandatory evacuation orders, according to officials in Los Angeles County.
The flames, known as the Franklin Fire, burned more than 3,000 acres in about 24 hours and placed nearly 20,000 people under evacuation orders and warnings.
Seven areas within city limits from the Pacific Coast to the outskirts of the Malibu Canyon fire are under an evacuation order, a legal order to leave immediately due to life-threatening conditions.
“Over 1,000 first responders from multiple agencies remain on scene battling the fire on the ground and in the air. Please heed evacuation orders and warnings,” the Los Angeles County Fire Department wrote on social media.
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Firefighters in Malibu, California, are working to contain the fast-moving Franklin Fire, which has burned more than 3,000 acres in about 24 hours. (Los Angeles County Fire Department Photographer Doug Morrison)
At least seven structures were created Destroyed in Malibu At least eight were damaged, according to City X. No injuries have been reported at this time.
“Our thoughts are with everyone affected by this devastating event,” the city said in its post.
The fire closed roads along the Pacific Coast Highway between Topanga Canyon Boulevard and Canaan Dume Road, according to the California Highway Patrol. The road is only open to residents evacuating the area and first responders.
There is also a hard closure on Los Virgenes Road at Mulholland Highway, the CHP said.
In addition to firefighters. Los Angeles County Sheriff Robert Luna said more than 150 deputies were dispatched to assist with road closures, evacuations and security patrols.
Strict closures are in effect for several major roads in Malibu as firefighters work to contain the Franklin Fire. (Los Angeles County Fire Department Photographer Doug Morrison)
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Firefighters were alerted Wildfires in Malibu Canyon near South Malibu Canyon Road and Francisco Ranch Road around 11 p.m. Monday.
FOX Weather reported that the fire quickly became dangerous due to strong Santa Ana winds, prompting a red flag warning that remains in effect through Wednesday afternoon.
“The entire fire area remains under threat as long as the current red flag conditions persist,” Los Angeles County Fire Chief Anthony Marrone said. “Strong winds and low humidity continue to pose a challenge to firefighters on the line and in the air as they struggle to contain this fire.”
At least seven buildings in Malibu were destroyed and at least eight damaged as of Tuesday evening, according to City X. (AP Photo/Jay Si Hong)
The fire also caused Pepperdine University to issue a shelter-in-place order until Wednesday morning, at which time school officials will reassess conditions in the community and discuss when it can be lifted.
“Fire activity around Pepperdine's Malibu campus It has diminished considerably as the Franklin Fire has burned most of the fuel immediately surrounding the campus, but some flames are still visible in small pockets of the campus.
“Firefighters continue to respond, extinguish remaining hot spots and protect structures,” Pepperdine said on Channel X late Tuesday night. “Early analysis indicates there is no significant damage to structures surrounding the campus, and no injuries have been reported.”
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Governor Gavin Newsom It announced a Fire Management Assistance Grant through the Federal Emergency Management Agency “to help ensure critical resources are available to suppress the fires burning in Malibu.”
The grant will help local, state and tribal agencies responding to the fire apply for reimbursement of 75% of eligible fire suppression costs.
“Fire officials and first responders are working relentlessly to protect lives and property from the Franklin Fire,” Newsom said. “California is grateful for this federal support that advances these efforts.”
FOX Weather contributed to this report.
