A dangerous and fast-moving wildfire, known as the Franklin Fire, ignited in the Malibu Canyon area late on the night of December 9, 2024. The fire quickly spread across the steep hillsides near Pepperdine University, driven by a combination of dry brush and strong Santa Ana winds. By the early hours of December 10, it had already grown to over 800 acres, threatening residents, businesses, and critical infrastructure. The situation remains fluid, with multiple evacuation orders in place and authorities continuing to battle the flames.
Here we’ll provide an overview of the Franklin Fire‘s rapid progression, its impact on the local community, and what you need to know to stay safe during wildfire emergencies in Southern California.
The Franklin Fire Erupts in Malibu Canyon
Initial Reports of the Franklin Fire
The Franklin Fire was first reported just before 11 p.m. on Monday, December 9, 2024. The flames started small, initially estimated at about 10 acres. However, the dry, brush-filled hills of Malibu Canyon, combined with the high winds of the Santa Ana event, caused the fire to escalate dramatically. Within three hours, it had surged to more than 800 acres, burning rapidly across the hillsides.
Firefighters from the Los Angeles County Fire Department and local agencies were dispatched immediately, but the intensity of the fire, combined with the unpredictable winds, made containment difficult. The Santa Ana winds can reach speeds of up to 80 mph, a factor that exacerbated the fire’s spread and intensified the danger for those in the area.
Evacuations and Shelter-in-Place Orders
Mandatory Evacuation Orders
As the fire grew, local authorities issued several mandatory evacuation orders to protect residents in the path of the flames. Evacuations were ordered for areas east of Malibu Canyon Road and south of Piuma Road, as well as north of Pacific Coast Highway. Key locations affected included:
- Serra Retreat: A Catholic conference center on a 26-acre hilltop.
- Malibu Canyon Road: Both sides of the canyon, as well as nearby residential areas, were evacuated.
- Carbon Beach Terrace: Areas south of Piuma Road, including parts of the Malibu Road area.
These evacuation areas were considered high-risk due to their proximity to the fire’s rapidly advancing front.
Evacuation Warnings and Animal Shelters
In addition to mandatory evacuations, evacuation warnings were issued for nearby areas that were at risk but not yet in immediate danger. These included:
- East of Las Virgenes Road: Between Mulholland Highway and Piuma Road.
- Stunt Road to Los Flores Canyon: The area was under heightened alert.
- Pacific Coast Highway Closure: From Carbon Canyon to Corral Canyon, restricting access to evacuations.
For those with large animals, a temporary shelter was set up at the Palisades Recreation Center located at 851 Alma Real Drive. Additionally, another animal shelter was available at Pierce College in Woodland Hills.
Pepperdine University and Campus Response
Shelter-in-Place Protocol Activated
As the fire advanced, Pepperdine University, located just a few miles from Malibu Canyon, went into shelter-in-place mode. The flames were not immediately threatening the campus, but due to power outages and the growing proximity of the fire, university officials instructed students and staff to remain on campus.
In a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter), Pepperdine emphasized that all campus community members should shelter in place at designated areas like the Tyler Campus Center or Payson Library. The university clarified that despite surrounding evacuation orders, it would not evacuate the campus, as the shelter-in-place protocol had been approved by LA County Fire.
The Impact of Santa Ana Winds
Why Santa Ana Winds Fuel Wildfires
Southern California’s Santa Ana winds are notorious for their ability to fuel wildfires. These winds, which originate from the desert areas to the east of Los Angeles, can reach speeds in excess of 70 mph. When combined with dry vegetation and the hot conditions typical of Southern California, the winds create an almost perfect storm for fire outbreaks. The Franklin Fire is a prime example of how dangerous these winds can be.
As of December 9, the Red Flag Warning for Southern California was in effect, signaling the high fire risk due to these gusty winds. The warning was expected to remain in place through Wednesday, December 11, as the winds were forecasted to intensify on Tuesday, making firefighting efforts even more challenging.
Residents Respond to the Franklin Fire
Business Owners and Volunteers in Malibu
In the early hours of December 10, many Malibu residents and business owners sprang into action to protect their properties. One small business owner, named Dustin, stated that he and his neighbors were accustomed to fighting fires in the area. “This isn’t our first rodeo in Malibu,” Dustin remarked, reflecting the resilience of the local community. He described how he worked to protect his business and assisted a neighbor whose horse had gotten loose in the chaos.
While firefighting teams worked tirelessly to contain the fire, community members often take a hands-on approach to protect their properties and help each other during these emergencies.
Firefighting Efforts and Aircraft Deployment
Air and Ground Crews Mobilize
In response to the rapidly growing fire, firefighting agencies launched a major operation involving both aircraft and ground crews. Helicopters, planes, and fire engines worked together to combat the blaze, using water and fire retardant to slow the fire’s spread. A third alarm was declared, mobilizing even more resources to tackle the flames.
However, the challenge for firefighters was significant. The terrain in Malibu Canyon is rugged and difficult to navigate, which added complications to the efforts. Furthermore, the presence of strong Santa Ana winds made it hard to gain control over the fire, pushing it toward the Pacific Coast Highway and further into Malibu.
Ongoing Updates and Emergency Alerts
Staying Informed During a Wildfire
The situation surrounding the Franklin Fire remained fluid throughout the night, with emergency services continuing to issue updates and alerts. Residents in affected areas were urged to monitor information from local authorities and follow evacuation orders if they hadn’t already done so.
Emergency Alert System (EAS) notifications were broadcast over TV, radio, and social media, providing up-to-date details on evacuation zones, shelter locations, and road closures. It’s crucial for everyone in Southern California, particularly those in fire-prone areas like Malibu, to stay connected to these channels in case of emergencies.
Lessons Learned and Preparing for Wildfires
How to Prepare for Wildfires
The Franklin Fire is a stark reminder of the constant risk of wildfires in Southern California. With unpredictable winds, dry conditions, and rugged terrain, the region remains one of the most fire-prone in the United States. Here are a few essential steps to stay safe:
- Have an Emergency Kit: Include essentials like water, medications, flashlights, batteries, and a portable phone charger.
- Know Your Evacuation Routes: Familiarize yourself with the local roads and evacuation centers.
- Stay Informed: Listen to local news stations, download emergency apps, and keep an eye on social media for updates.
- Create a Family Plan: Ensure everyone in your household knows where to go and what to do in case of a wildfire.
- Defensible Space: If you live in a fire-prone area, clear dry vegetation around your property to create a defensible space.
The Franklin Fire’s Ongoing Impact
As the Franklin Fire continues to burn through the hills of Malibu Canyon, the situation remains dangerous. With strong winds and dry conditions, firefighting efforts are ongoing, and evacuation orders are still in effect for some areas. The community of Malibu, including Pepperdine University, is working hard to stay safe, while firefighters battle the flames. The impact of the fire underscores the importance of preparation, vigilance, and resilience when it comes to wildfires in Southern California.
Stay safe, stay informed, and follow all emergency guidelines to protect yourself and your loved ones.
