Franklin Fire in Malibu Expands to Nearly 4,000 Acres, Destroys 7 Structures

A fast-moving brush fire in Malibu has grown to almost 4,000 acres, fueled by high winds and dry conditions, officials reported on Wednesday. With only 7% containment, authorities caution that the fire remains a significant threat.

Evacuations and Closures

Approximately 20,000 people are under evacuation orders and warnings as the fire continues to advance. Malibu schools are closed, and Pacific Coast Highway (PCH), the main artery through the area, is shut down. Firefighters are battling challenging conditions to control the blaze.

Los Angeles County Supervisor Lindsey Horvath emphasized the ongoing danger during a Wednesday news conference. “While today marks the last day of the severe fire weather warning, this emergency is far from over,” she stated, urging continued vigilance.

What We Know About the Franklin Fire

The fire ignited around 11 p.m. Monday near Malibu Canyon Road and Station Boundary. The cause remains under investigation. By early Tuesday, it had spread southward, threatening Malibu Pier, Malibu Road, and other neighborhoods, including Serra and Civic Center.

Pepperdine University required students to shelter in place twice: early Tuesday and again Tuesday evening due to power outages. Final exams at Seaver College have been canceled for the week. City Hall was evacuated early Tuesday as flames neared, and the city’s Emergency Operations Center was relocated to Calabasas.

Current Impact

• Acreage: 3,983 acres (as of Wednesday morning)
• Containment: 7%
• Structures Destroyed: 7
• Structures Damaged: 9
• Deaths/Injuries: None reported
• Personnel: 1,532 firefighters on-site
• Power Outages: Affecting nearly 25 square miles of Malibu

Authorities have urged residents to conserve water and halt outdoor irrigation to ensure adequate resources for firefighting efforts.

Evacuation Orders and Resources

Mandatory evacuation zones include MAL-C111, MAL-C112, and others as listed by CalFire. An emergency supplies station has been set up at Zuma Beach, offering food, water, and first aid.

Shelters:

• Evacuation Shelter:
  • Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District Facility, 2802 Fourth Street, Santa Monica (small pets welcome)
  • Calabasas Community Center, 27040 Malibu Hills Road
• Small Animal Shelter: Agoura Animal Care Center, 29525 Agoura Rd, Agoura Hills
• Large Animal Shelter: Pierce College, 6201 Winnetka Avenue, Woodland Hills

Road Closures:

PCH is closed between Topanga Canyon Blvd and Kanan Dume Road.

Other closures include Las Virgenes Road from Mulholland to Lost Hills.

School Closures and Impact

All Malibu schools are closed through Thursday due to fire risks and power outages. Webster Elementary School sustained significant electrical grid damage, along with minor exterior and smoke damage. Superintendent Antonio Shelton assured families that schools will undergo professional restoration before reopening.

Assistance Programs

Southern California Edison is offering hotel discounts for those affected by extended power outages. Participating hotels within 20 miles of affected areas are providing special rates.

As fire season becomes a year-round reality in California, residents are reminded to stay informed and prepared. Governor Gavin Newsom reiterated, “Fire season is not a season—it’s year-round in California.”

Legal Assistance

The devastation caused by the Franklin Fire serves as a stark reminder of the life-altering impact wildfires can have on families and communities. At Avian Law Group, we understand the overwhelming challenges that come with recovering from wildfire damage and displacement. Our dedicated team is here to help you navigate insurance claims, assess property damage, and pursue compensation for your losses. If you or your loved ones have been affected by the Franklin Fire, don’t face the aftermath alone. Contact Avian Law Group today for a free consultation—together, we’ll work toward rebuilding and securing the justice you deserve.