Malibu is burning: Franklin Fire in pictures

The picturesque beaches of Malibu have turned into scenes of devastation due to wildfires. The Franklin Fire rapidly spread across the Southern California coastline on the night of December 10.

According to CNN, the fire has forced evacuations, including those of celebrities such as actor Dick Van Dyke and Cher, as it threatens hillside residences and infrastructure.

As reported by CBS News, the Los Angeles County Fire Department says that the huge wildfire was first reported late at night on Monday, December 9, near South Malibu Canyon Road and Station Boundary just south of the Piuma area.

According to CNN, by the evening of Tuesday, December 10, the fire's footprint had ballooned from an initial 100 acres to more than 2,800 acres.

CBS reports that Robert Luna, the Los Angeles County Sheriff, said on December 10 that there are roughly 18,000 people and 8,100 structures in the affected area.

Furthermore, Sheriff Luna added that of the 8,100 structures, 2,043 are under evacuation orders, and 6,046 are under evacuation warnings.

The Los Angeles County Fire Department and CalFire have reported that the fire remains 0% contained. CalFire reports that preliminary assessments indicate at least seven homes were fully destroyed and eight were damaged.

The National Weather Service has warned that the fire's ferocity alters wind patterns, funneling winds directly into the flames. On the morning of Tuesday, December 10, gusts reached up to 40 mph (63 km per hour), contributing to the fire's spread.

CNN notes that experts believe that the winds are expected to calm later this week. However, critical fire weather conditions are anticipated to persist for the time being.

CBS News reports that firefighters are actively engaged in water drops and containment efforts as the Franklin Fire continues to wreak havoc across Malibu. Authorities have urged residents to stay informed and heed evacuation orders to ensure their safety.

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