Malibu, CA — A rapidly advancing wildfire, designated the “Franklin Fire,” erupted late Monday near Malibu Canyon Road, compelling mandatory evacuations throughout Malibu and leading Pepperdine University to implement its shelter-in-place protocol for students and staff.
The blaze ignited around 10:45 p.m. on December 9, swiftly consuming over 1,600 acres with zero containment reported by early Tuesday. Fueled by strong Santa Ana winds, with gusts reaching up to 65 mph, the fire threatened numerous structures, including the university’s campus.
In adherence to established safety measures, Pepperdine directed its community to remain within designated safe zones on campus, such as the Payson Library and Tyler Campus Center. This shelter-in-place strategy, developed in collaboration with the Los Angeles County Fire Department, is designed to protect individuals during wildfires by keeping them in secure, defensible locations rather than risking evacuation through potentially hazardous areas.
Despite the university’s directives, some students and parents expressed concerns, recalling past incidents where similar protocols were enacted during nearby fires. However, university officials emphasized that the shelter-in-place approach has been effective in previous emergencies and is continually reviewed to ensure the safety of the campus community.
Mandatory evacuation orders were issued for areas east of Malibu Canyon Road and south of Piuma Road, as well as the Serra Retreat neighborhood. The Pacific Coast Highway was closed over a five-mile stretch to facilitate firefighting efforts and ensure public safety.
As of Tuesday morning, firefighting crews, supported by water-dropping aircraft, were actively combating the flames. The cause of the Franklin Fire remains under investigation.
Pepperdine University canceled classes and final exams scheduled for Tuesday, advising students to remain vigilant and adhere to official communications for updates on safety measures and campus operations.
Sources:
- Fox News: Pepperdine students shelter in library, campus center as Malibu fire forces evacuations
- AP News: A wildfire in Malibu prompts evacuations as it burns near Pepperdine University
- New York Post: Fast-moving bushfire tears through Malibu, threatening Pepperdine University and sparking massive mandatory evacuation order
