The Franklin fire erupted late Monday in Malibu, California, burning 2,800 acres and remaining completely uncontained. The fire has forced residents, including celebrities Cher and Dick Van Dyke, to evacuate their homes.
Fueled by strong Santa Ana winds and dry conditions, the fire has destroyed multiple structures and continues to threaten the Malibu community, Page Six reported.
The fire began on Monday night, December 9, 2024, and quickly spread due to winds reaching 45 mph, with gusts up to 65 mph. Low humidity has further exacerbated the fire's rapid growth, leaving firefighters battling an intense blaze under a red flag warning in effect until Wednesday, December 11.
Dick Van Dyke, 98, and his wife, Arlene, fled their home in Serra Retreat, a gated community in Malibu. The couple successfully evacuated with their animals, but their beloved cat, Bobo, escaped during the chaos.
Van Dyke updated concerned fans on Facebook, writing, "Arlene and I have safely evacuated with our animals except for Bobo [who] escaped as we were leaving. We’re praying he’ll be okay and that our community in Serra Retreat will survive these terrible fires."
Cher, 78, also left her Malibu home late Monday night. Her publicist confirmed that she has checked into a hotel and is staying there with her pets. Although no injuries or fatalities have been reported so far, the fire continues to threaten lives and property significantly.
The Franklin fire is the latest in a series of devastating blazes that have hit Malibu, a community known for its scenic coastline and high-profile residents. Many people remember the 2018 Woolsey Fire, which destroyed thousands of homes, including those of Miley Cyrus, Neil Young, and Gerard Butler.
During the Woolsey Fire, Miley Cyrus described the emotional toll of losing her home but emphasized her gratitude for what mattered most. She said at the time, "My house no longer stands but the memories shared with family and friends stand strong. I am one of the lucky ones. My animals and [partner] made it out safely, and that’s all that matters right now."
As of Tuesday afternoon, December 10, strong winds and challenging terrain have hindered efforts to contain the Franklin fire, which remains zero percent contained. Local firefighters are working tirelessly to protect homes and prevent further destruction, although conditions remain highly dangerous.
Investigators have yet to determine the cause of the fire. Authorities have urged residents to stay vigilant and prepare for potential evacuations as the situation continues to evolve.
Fans and neighbors are concerned about Barbra Streisand's safety, as recent updates have not accounted for her. Speculation has arisen due to her proximity to the fire’s path, but no official reports have confirmed her status.
The fire has already destroyed several structures, though officials have not confirmed the exact number. The loss of property has reignited fears among Malibu residents, who are all too familiar with the catastrophic effects of wildfires in the region.
The red flag warning, which indicates extreme fire danger, is expected to remain active until Wednesday. The combination of high winds, low humidity, and dry vegetation creates a perfect storm for wildfires to spread quickly and unpredictably.
Evacuation orders and road closures are being updated regularly as fire crews work to contain the blaze. Officials continue to stress the importance of heeding evacuation orders to ensure personal safety.
Both Cher and Dick Van Dyke have expressed their concerns for their community amid the chaos. While Cher has remained private, Van Dyke's heartfelt message about his lost cat and hopes for Serra Retreat resonate with many who are enduring similar uncertainties.
Van Dyke's upcoming 99th birthday on Friday, December 13, adds an emotional layer to his evacuation, as fans hope the legendary actor will be able to celebrate in safety.
Malibu residents have long faced the dual challenges of wildfire season and rebuilding efforts. The Franklin fire serves as a sobering reminder of the area’s vulnerability and the importance of preparation and community support.
Authorities have promised to provide regular updates as conditions evolve, urging all residents to stay informed and prioritize their safety. For now, the fight against the Franklin fire continues, with hopes of containment rising as the winds are expected to ease later this week.
