Malibu wildfire forces evacuations, including Dick Van Dyke and Cher
A fast-moving wildfire dubbed the Franklin Fire has forced thousands of Malibu residents, including actor Dick Van Dyke and singer Cher, to evacuate as flames swept through the affluent Los Angeles-area community.
The fire began late Monday in Malibu Canyon, burning over 3,000 acres and destroying at least seven homes. Authorities reported no injuries, but the fire remained zero per cent contained as of Tuesday night.
Mandatory evacuation orders cover much of Malibu, including celebrity homes belonging to stars like Lady Gaga and Beyoncé. Dick Van Dyke shared news of his evacuation via social media.
Schools and roads have been closed, and power has been cut to prevent further risks. Evacuation centres have been set up to shelter residents and animals, with over 5,000 people affected.
Officials are investigating the cause of the blaze, which broke out during a red-flag warning, signalling extreme fire risk. The fire’s rapid spread highlights California’s growing vulnerability to wildfires, with dry conditions and high winds fueling their intensity.
