Pepperdine University in Malibu, California, lifted its shelter-in-place order Tuesday morning following the overnight Franklin Fire. The university is now assessing the fire's impact on the campus. The shelter-in-place had been in effect since the early hours of Tuesday, impacting students and staff. While the most intense part of the fire has moved past the university, smaller spot fires remain on campus. Fire crews are actively addressing these smaller fires, which are not currently considered a threat to buildings or lives.
A firefighter battles the Franklin Fire near a building in Malibu, California on December 10, 2024. (Mario Tama/Getty Images)
Power outages continue to affect much of Malibu, including the Pepperdine campus. Malibu campus operations, including classes and final exams, are suspended for Tuesday. An updated final exam schedule will be released by each school's Dean's office. The university had directed students and community members to shelter in the Tyler Campus Center and Payson Library after activating its Emergency Operations Committee (EOC).
Evacuation map for the Franklin Fire, provided by Los Angeles County. (County of Los Angeles)
The Franklin Fire, a third-alarm brush fire near Malibu Canyon Road and Station Boundary, prompted mandatory evacuations for some residents and evacuation warnings for others. No injuries or fatalities have been reported. The fire has burned over 1,822 acres and is currently uncontained. The cause of the fire, which started around 10:50 p.m., is under investigation.
Overnight view of the Franklin Fire in Malibu, California. (FOX 11 Los Angeles)
Los Angeles County Fire Department is actively fighting the fire both on the ground and from the air. Pacific Coast Highway is closed between Topanga Canyon Boulevard and Corral Canyon Road due to the fire. For the latest updates on evacuations and emergency information, residents are advised to consult the Los Angeles County incident response website.
The Franklin Fire burns near a building in Malibu, California on December 10, 2024. (Mario Tama/Getty Images)
