Unimaginable devastation in Malibu of California from the huge fire named “Fracklin” that erupted on Monday night (09.12.2024).
The fire has so far destroyed several homes in Malibu, forced at least 20,000 people to flee their neighborhoods, as winds are gusty and hamper the work of thousands of firefighters on the front lines.
The Franklin Fire, fueled by high winds and cold temperatures, has burned 3,983 acres and left 73,000 homes without power.
Above 1,500 firefighters are fighting hard to bring the flames under control.
Because of the fire, many celebrities evacuated their homes in Malibu. Among them were singer Cher, actor Dick Van Dyke and his wife.
In fact, the couple’s cat escaped from the house while they were leaving, they announced on social media.
Flames have come close to homes, horse farms and Pepperdine University as the fire is fueled by strong Santa Ana winds.
At Pepperdine University, 3,000 students sought shelter as smoke and flames engulfed the campus.
“Ashes everywhere, burning everywhere,” said student Bethany Kronlund.
“It’s been a traumatic 20 hours for the city of Malibu,” said Mayor Doug Stewart.
Reuters photos