California

Crews Fight to Contain Out-of-Control Wildfire Near Malibu

A fast-spreading wildfire had grown to 4 square miles by Tuesday afternoon, forcing thousands to flee.
Crews Fight to Contain Out-of-Control Wildfire Near Malibu
The Los Angeles County Fire Department responds to a fast-growing fire in Malibu on Dec. 9, 2024. Doug Morrison, Los Angeles County Fire Department
Jill McLaughlin
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Malibu residents fled their homes in the middle of the night on Dec. 9, as a wildfire blazed out of control, fueled by strong winds and forcing thousands to evacuate.

The Franklin Fire started just before 11 p.m. Monday on Malibu Canyon Road near Malibu Creek State Park, according to California’s Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (Cal Fire).

Jill McLaughlin
Jill McLaughlin
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Jill McLaughlin is an award-winning journalist covering politics, environment, and statewide issues. She has been a reporter and editor for newspapers in Oregon, Nevada, and New Mexico. Jill was born in Yosemite National Park and enjoys the majestic outdoors, traveling, golfing, and hiking.