Franklin Fire in Malibu Reaches 35% Containment as Evacuations Downgraded to Warnings

Containment efforts for the Franklin Fire in Malibu have made significant strides, reaching 35% containment as of Saturday. Fire officials reported the blaze has remained steady at 4,037 acres, a figure that reflects the progress made by firefighters aided by cooler weather, increased humidity, and the absence of strong winds that initially fueled the fire earlier in the week. As of Saturday, the damage assessment for the fire, which erupted late Monday night, is approximately 80% complete. The current tally indicates that 19 structures have been completely destroyed, including eight single-family homes and 11 outbuildings. An additional 23 structures have suffered varying degrees of damage, comprising 14 single-family dwellings, one multi-family residence, four commercial properties, and four outbuildings. At the height of the emergency, approximately 20,000 residents were subject to evacuation orders. However, following the positive containment news, Malibu city spokesman Matt Myerhoff announced that all evacuation orders had been downgraded to warnings, allowing 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," Myerhoff stated, reiterating the continued commitment to public safety. In light of the situation, the city of Malibu also confirmed that the Pacific Coast Highway has reopened to traffic, although Malibu Canyon remains closed as safety assessments continue. Furthermore, a local assistance center will open at Malibu City Hall on Tuesday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. to provide support to affected residents. A community meeting is scheduled for Wednesday to discuss recovery efforts and provide updates. The fire, sparked in Malibu Canyon amid dangerously dry conditions and a "particularly dangerous situation red flag warning" from the National Weather Service, has prompted officials to investigate its cause. Pepperdine University, located near the fire's origin, experienced power outages and briefly activated a shelter-in-place protocol on Tuesday, which was lifted later that day, though students were urged to avoid local roads. Following the disruption, final exams were postponed, and university operations were suspended due to widespread power loss. Malibu schools within the Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District closed through Friday due to ongoing fire restrictions, while Santa Monica schools remained operational. The Santa Monica College Malibu Campus also remained closed during this period. The response to the fire has garnered additional support at the state level, with Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors Chair Kathryn Barger declaring a local state of emergency on Tuesday. Governor Gavin Newsom confirmed that California has secured a Fire Management Assistance Grant from the Federal Emergency Management Agency to bolster firefighting efforts. "Fire officials and first responders are working relentlessly to protect lives and property from the Franklin Fire," Newsom stated, expressing gratitude for federal support that strengthens the state’s response. As the community begins the process of recovery and assessment, officials continue to urge residents to stay informed and prepared as firefighting efforts progress. Up-to-date information about road closures and other relevant updates can be found at pw.lacounty.gov/roadclosures.