A raging wildfire in Malibu, California, was 0% contained as of Tuesday night after destroying at least seven buildings and prompting the evacuation of tens of thousands of people, according to Los Angeles County officials.
The blaze, known as the Franklin Fire, burned more than 3,000 acres in about 24 hours and resulted in evacuation orders and warnings for nearly 20,000 people.
Seven areas within city limits, from the Pacific coastline to the suburbs where the Malibu Canyon Fire broke out, are under evacuation orders, which are legal orders to leave immediately due to life-threatening conditions.
“More than 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.
Malibu wildfire surrounds Dick Van Dyke’s home; 98-year-old star ‘evacuated safely’
Firefighters in Malibu, California, are working to contain the fast-moving Franklin Fire, which burned more than 3,000 acres in about 24 hours. (Los Angeles County Fire Department photographer Doug Morrison)
According to the Malibu City X website, at least seven buildings in the city were destroyed and at least eight others were damaged.
“Our hearts go out to everyone affected by this devastating event,” the city said in its post.
The fire caused closures along the Pacific Coast Highway between Topanga Canyon Boulevard and Canandum Road, according to the California Highway Patrol. The road is only open to residents and first responders evacuating the area.
Strict closures are also in place at Los Virgenes Road at Mulholland Highway, the CHP said.
Los Angeles County Sheriff Robert Luna said that in addition to fire personnel, more than 150 deputies were dispatched to assist with road closures, evacuations and safety patrols.
Several major roads in Malibu are under strict closure as firefighters work to contain the Franklin Fire. (Los Angeles County Fire Department photographer Doug Morrison)
Malibu explosion and fire force thousands to evacuate, face ‘highest’ threat
Firefighters were alerted to a wildfire in Malibu Canyon near South Malibu Canyon Road and Francisco Ranch Road around 11 p.m. Monday.
Fox Weather said the fires quickly became dangerous due to strong Santa Ana winds, triggering a red flag warning that remains in effect until Wednesday afternoon.
“As long as the current red flag persists, the entire fire zone remains threatened,” said Los Angeles County Fire Chief Anthony Malone. “Strong winds and low humidity continue to create challenges for firefighters on the front lines and in the air as they work to contain the blaze. ”
As of Tuesday evening, at least seven buildings had been destroyed and at least eight others damaged, according to the city of Malibu. (AP Photo/Jae C. Hong)
The fire also prompted Pepperdine University to issue a shelter-in-place order Wednesday morning, at which time school officials will reassess the situation in the community and discuss when the order can be lifted.
“Fire activity around Pepperdine University’s Malibu campus has decreased significantly as the Franklin Fire has burned most of its fuel around campus, but some flames can still be seen in small spots on campus.
“Firefighters continue to respond and extinguish lingering hot spots and protect buildings. Early analysis indicates there is little damage to buildings around campus and no injuries were reported,” Pepperdine said Tuesday night.
Click here to get the Fox News app
Governor Gavin Newsom announced that a fire management assistance grant has been secured through the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to “help ensure critical resources are available to suppress the Malibu fires.”
The grant will help local, state and tribal agencies responding to fires apply for reimbursement of 75% of their eligible firefighting expenses.
“Fire officials and first responders are working tirelessly to protect life and property from the Franklin Fire,” Newsom said. “California is grateful for the support from the federal government, which strengthens these efforts.”
Fox Weather contributed to this report.
