Firefighters make progress in controlling Franklin Fire as weather improves: Check wildfire map
Authorities advise caution for drivers in fire-affected areas. Firefighters and equipment are still active on-site.
The Malibu wildfire remains a significant threat, endangering over 1,000 buildings while firefighting teams strive to take control of the situation, as reported by officials.
The incident, referred to as the Franklin Fire, has resulted in the destruction of 19 buildings and has caused damage to 27 others. It poses a danger to 1,025 buildings as it consumes 4,037 acres in Malibu, California, approximately 29 miles west of Los Angeles, as indicated by the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (Cal Fire).
On Saturday, the fire was threatening more than 4,300 structures, according to earlier reports by YSL News. However, firefighters have made headway in controlling the blaze, aided by cooler temperatures and increased humidity.
As of Sunday morning, Cal Fire reported that 42% of the wildfire has been contained.
Evacuation orders have been lifted in several areas, allowing residents to return home.
What caused the Franklin Fire?
The origin of the fire is currently being investigated by Cal Fire.
Where is Malibu, California?
Malibu is a city located in Los Angeles County, situated to the west of Los Angeles.
As the fire worsened, many were compelled to evacuate, including Hollywood star Dick Van Dyke and pop superstar Cher.
On Thursday, following the expiration of red flag warnings, officials lifted some evacuation orders, and efforts to allow people back to their homes commenced.
Cool weather aids firefighting efforts
The drop in temperatures and rise in humidity have helped firefighters significantly in controlling the blaze, as noted by Cal Fire.
Firefighters engage in suppression activities, benefitting from the wet weather and some rain in Southern California, which has “helped lower the levels of heat still present in the fire,” according to the department.
However, the fire continues to smolder in regions characterized by “steep and hazardous terrain.”
“Aerial suppression strategies in these challenging areas have been effective at keeping the fire under control,” Cal Fire’s current report stated.
Authorities advise the public to exercise caution while traveling through fire-stricken areas, as firefighters and equipment remain active on-site.
