Cher had to move to the hotel, actress Mira Sorvino was caught in the middle of the night: a forest fire was raging in Southern California. The famous Pacific Coast Highway is partially impassable.

In the Californian coastal town of Malibu, the flames of a forest fire have spread from the hilly hinterland to the beaches. According to the city administration, the famous Pacific Coast Highway has been closed in parts. Houses near the pier in the town are also in danger, it was said. Thousands of residents fled the affected areas overnight.

More than 700 firefighters fought the rapidly spreading forest fire along the burning Pacific coast. The “Franklin Fire” broke out late Monday evening (local time). According to the fire department, it quickly spread to an area of more than 1,100 hectares. At first, it was not possible to contain the flames.

Evacuations were ordered or warnings issued in large parts of Malibu. There were no reports of injuries or deaths. The authorities did not initially provide any information on damage. However, photos and videos from news channels showed burning and charred houses.

Malibu near Los Angeles : Celebrities flee bush fires