A fast-moving brush fire, dubbed the Franklin Fire, has erupted in Malibu, California, with rapid growth reported since it began on December 10, 2024. The fire has expanded to over 800 acres within just a few hours, fueled by strong Santa Ana winds with gusts reaching 65 mph. As a result, mandatory evacuation orders have been issued for areas east of Malibu Canyon Road and south of Piuma Road, including the Serra Retreat area. Firefighters are actively battling the blaze, which has already consumed some structures. Pepperdine University has activated a shelter-in-place protocol for its campus community due to the fire's proximity. The Los Angeles County Fire Department has deployed multiple resources, including air support, to combat the fire. Authorities continue to monitor the situation as the fire poses an imminent threat to nearby homes and infrastructure.
