The Franklin Fire in Malibu reached 54% containment as of Monday morning, while the fire’s size held steady at 4,037 acres, according to officials.
Firefighters have made consistent progress since the blaze ignited last Monday night near Pepperdine University. Cal Fire reports that aerial firefighting efforts have successfully prevented the fire from spreading in steep, hazardous terrain where the flames continue to smolder.
Cooler temperatures, higher humidity, and diminishing winds have provided much-needed relief for firefighters. When the wildfire first erupted, strong Santa Ana winds rapidly fueled its spread to 2,600 acres within 24 hours.
During a Saturday news conference, officials cautioned that winds could intensify by Sunday evening. Forecasts indicated 20 to 30 mph winds on Monday, with another Santa Ana wind event expected on Tuesday. Residents were urged to remain alert as hot spots persist.
As of Saturday evening, 19 structures were confirmed destroyed, including eight homes, according to city officials. By Monday, damage assessments were completed, revealing an additional 27 structures damaged: 14 single-family homes, one multi-family dwelling, seven commercial properties, and five outbuildings.
At the height of the fire, approximately 20,000 residents were under evacuation orders or warnings. All mandatory evacuation orders were lifted Friday, allowing displaced residents to return home.
“This significant milestone reflects the progress made by our first responders and partner agencies in ensuring the safety of our community,” Malibu city spokesman Matt Myerhoff stated Friday.
Residents are advised to drive cautiously as emergency and utility crews remain active in affected areas.
Pacific Coast Highway has fully reopened, while Malibu Canyon, initially closed due to fire damage, reopened to residents on Sunday. The city will provide additional resources, including a local assistance center at Malibu City Hall, open Tuesday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. A community meeting is scheduled for Wednesday.
Three schools impacted by the fire—Malibu Elementary, Malibu Middle, and Malibu High—reopened Monday. Webster Elementary students and staff will relocate to Malibu Elementary beginning Tuesday, December 17, as repairs continue at their campus. The Santa Monica College Malibu Campus remains closed through Friday.
Governor Gavin Newsom announced that the state has secured a Fire Management Assistance Grant from FEMA to ensure resources remain available to combat the blaze. Officials have yet to determine the fire’s cause.
If you or a loved one experienced loss or damage due to the Franklin Fire, Avian Law Group is here to help. We’ve supported thousands of families in Southern California dealing with wildfire displacement and property damage. Reach out to learn how we can assist you.