A devastating wildfire tore through Malibu on Monday night, destroying at least seven homes and forcing thousands of residents to evacuate. The fire, which erupted late in the evening, quickly spread across the area, fueled by strong winds and dry brush, threatening multimillion-dollar properties, including those owned by Hollywood celebrities.
The blaze, named the Franklin Fire, exploded late on Monday, advancing rapidly through the steep canyons surrounding the wealthy enclave located near Los Angeles. Firefighters struggled to control the flames due to the difficult terrain, with towering flames consuming hillsides and thick smoke filling the air.
“We were completely surrounded,” Malibu resident Alec Gellis told KTLA. “It was like 11 p.m. We hear people screaming. I walk outside—the sky is bright red. Within 45 minutes, it’s coming down the hillside, and within an hour, we’re fully surrounded, houses burning down on one side, ridge burning on the other side, mountains all around us.”
Authorities issued evacuation orders for approximately 20,000 residents, urging people to leave as conditions worsened. Many others were placed under evacuation warnings, advised to prepare to flee if necessary.
“Fire can be extremely unpredictable, and we highly encourage residents in the fire areas to be prepared. Have a plan and heed our evacuation warnings and orders,” said Captain Jennifer Seeto of the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department.
By Tuesday evening, the fire had spread to over 2,800 acres (1,150 hectares) and was still burning out of control, further exacerbated by seasonal winds. Firefighters, supported by aircraft dumping water and retardant from the air, continued their efforts to contain the blaze. As of the latest reports, the full extent of the damage to homes remains unconfirmed.
Malibu Mayor Doug Stewart acknowledged the trauma caused by the fire but emphasized the community’s resilience. “It burns, it comes back, and we’re resilient and strong,” Stewart said.
Among the evacuees was actor Dick Van Dyke, who posted on social media that he and his wife had fled their Malibu home. “Arlene and I have safely evacuated with our animals except for a cat that escaped as we were leaving,” Van Dyke wrote, expressing hope for the safety of the community.
The fire has disrupted power across Southern California, with utilities cutting off electricity to tens of thousands of residents as a precaution to reduce the risk of fires caused by downed power lines. Governor Gavin Newsom announced that the state had secured a Fire Management Assistance Grant from FEMA to aid the firefighting efforts.
Wildfires are a frequent threat in California, especially during periods of high winds and dry conditions. Experts say that climate change has contributed to more intense and frequent fires, with longer dry periods leading to more desiccated vegetation.
