Southern California Wildfire Destroyed Multiple Structures, Threatened Coastal Communities
The Franklin Fire erupted in Southern California’s Malibu Canyon on December 10, forcing 20,000 residents to evacuate as fierce Santa Ana winds pushed flames toward the coastal community. The blaze consumed 3,000 acres, destroyed seven structures, and jumped the Pacific Coast Highway during its initial spread. Los Angeles County Fire officials battled the fire amid wind gusts exceeding 60 mph in the Santa Monica Mountains.
5 Key Points
- The Franklin Fire began December 10 at 11 p.m. in Malibu Canyon, threatening 8,100 structures.
- Emergency officials issued mandatory evacuation orders affecting 20,000 residents across multiple zones.
- Seven structures were destroyed and eight damaged, with no serious injuries reported.
- Pepperdine University implemented shelter-in-place orders as flames approached the campus.
- Red flag warnings remained in effect until December 11 at 8 p.m., with wind gusts reaching 93 mph.
Santa Ana Winds Drive Rapid Fire Expansion Across Malibu Canyon
Los Angeles County Fire Chief Anthony Marrone reported the Franklin Fire spread rapidly through Malibu Canyon due to extreme Santa Ana wind conditions, with gusts reaching 93 mph in the San Gabriel Mountains and 76 mph at Boney Mountain in the Santa Monica range. The fire’s swift movement forced emergency response teams to evacuate residents from areas south of Piuma Road, east of Puerco Canyon Road, and west of Los Flores Canyon Road. Fire crews faced challenging conditions as winds between 40 to 60 mph continued to drive the blaze across the Pacific Coast Highway toward the Malibu Pier area, a popular tourist destination.
Emergency Response Mobilizes Resources Across Los Angeles County
Governor Gavin Newsom’s office secured a Federal Emergency Management Agency grant to support firefighting efforts in the region. The Los Angeles County Fire and Sheriff’s departments established the Palisades Recreation Center as an evacuation center, while Pierce College in Woodland Hills served as a large animal shelter. Southern California Edison implemented public safety power shutoffs affecting more than 10,000 customers in Los Angeles County, nearly 9,000 in San Bernardino County, and over 2,000 in Kern County. Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass monitored the situation, expressing gratitude to first responders battling the blaze.
Pepperdine University Implements Emergency Protocols
Pepperdine University’s 830-acre campus lost power across most of its facilities during the fire emergency. University officials directed those remaining on campus to shelter in either the Campus Center or Payson Library. Videos shared on social media captured flames visible from campus windows early December 10, with fire crossing a ridge on the north end of campus and moving into the brush that afternoon. Despite the proximity of the flames, the university reported no significant structural damage to its facilities.
Climate Change Amplifies California’s Fire Risk
Fire Chief Marrone addressed the broader implications of the Franklin Fire, stating, “It’s undeniable, from my perspective, that global warming is causing more challenges for us.” While arson investigators from both the fire and sheriff’s departments examined the fire’s cause, officials noted that climate change has intensified drought conditions and raised temperatures, increasing the risk of rapid fire spread. Statistics show that while arson causes 10% to 15% of California’s wildfires annually, environmental factors have heightened the danger of all ignition sources.
FAQ
Q: How many homes were destroyed in the Franklin Fire?
A: The Los Angeles County Fire Department confirmed seven structures were destroyed and eight others damaged. However, officials noted these numbers were preliminary, and a more accurate count would be conducted later.
Q: What areas of Malibu were under mandatory evacuation orders?
A: Mandatory evacuations covered areas south of Piuma Road, east of Puerco Canyon Road, west of Los Flores Canyon Road, and the region between the Pacific Ocean coastline and Tuna Canyon Park to the west of Tuna Canyon Road.
Q: How did the Franklin Fire affect Pepperdine University?
A: The fire approached Pepperdine’s 830-acre campus, causing power outages and prompting officials to implement shelter-in-place orders at the Campus Center and Payson Library. No significant structural damage was reported while flames crossed a ridge on the north end of campus.
Q: What caused the rapid spread of the Franklin Fire?
A: Santa Ana winds, with gusts reaching up to 93 mph in the San Gabriel Mountains and 76 mph at Boney Mountain, combined with low humidity and dry vegetation, created dangerous fire conditions. Red flag warnings affected approximately 12 million residents from San Luis Obispo to San Diego.
Q: When will Malibu schools reopen?
A: The school district announced all Malibu schools would remain closed through Thursday, December 12.
Q: What emergency resources were available for evacuees?
A: The Palisades Recreation Center served as an evacuation center for residents, while Pierce College in Woodland Hills provided shelter for large animals. FEMA approved an emergency grant to support firefighting efforts.
Citations
Chow, D., Lenthang, M., & Helsel, P. (December 10, 2024). Thousands warned to evacuate in Southern California as wildfires threaten Malibu. NBC News. https://www.nbcnews.com/news/amp/rcna183571
