Firefighters are fighting a rapidly expanding fire in Malibu, California, near Los Angeles. Some buildings have burned down and roads are closed. A total of approximately 20,000 people are subject to evacuation orders or warnings about potential evacuation.
The Franklin Fire, which broke out on Monday near Malibu Canyon, had spread to 1,133 hectares on Tuesday. On Monday, over 400 hectares were covered by fire. At one point, the fire's area nearly tripled in just an hour. “It has been a traumatic 20 hours for the city of Malibu,” Mayor Doug Stewart said.
According to the services, at least seven buildings were destroyed and eight were damaged. Media reports have closed some roads, including sections of the Pacific Coast Highway.
Evacuation of thousands of people
Mandatory evacuations were announced for six thousand people in Malibu and the surrounding area. Firefighters also issued a warning about a potential evacuation, which could cover another 14,000 people. people.
The area covered by the evacuation includes over two thousand buildings. “It is certain that some homes will be severely damaged,” said Matt Myerhoff, spokesman for the city of Malibu.
About 1,500 firefighters are taking part in the operation.
Fire in MalibuPAP/EPA/ALLISON DINNER
Fire in MalibuPAP/EPA/ALLISON DINNER
Strong winds gusting to about 70 kilometers per hour were fanning the flames, which were visible from Pepperdine University. Due to the threat, the university temporarily canceled classes. Its authorities also reported power outages on campus and the activation of the so-called shelter-in-place protocol, which was later canceled.
Fire in MalibuPAP/EPA/ALLISON DINNER
Fire in MalibuEPA
Main photo source: PAP/EPA/ALLISON DINNER