US: Brush fire continues to spread and is threatening homes near Malibu, California, as of early Dec. 10 /update 1

Emergency crews continue working to contain a brush fire burning near Malibu in Los Angeles County, California, as of early Dec. 10. The Franklin Fire broke out late Dec. 9 near Malibu Canyon Road and has spread rapidly amid high winds in the region. As of early Dec. 10, the fire has grown to around 737 hectares (1,822 acres) and is zero percent contained. The fire has spread southwards over the Pacific Coast Highway and is threatening homes and structures by Malibu Pier, Malibu Road, Malibu Knolls, and Sweetwater Mesa. Red flag warnings and high wind warnings remain in place for parts of the region as of Dec. 10 and further fire growth is possible in the coming hours and days.

Authorities have issued evacuation orders for residents south of Piuma Road, north of the Pacific Coast Highway, east of Las Virgenes Road and Malibu Road, and west of Carbon Beach Terrace. Evacuation warnings are in place for surrounding areas. Full details on the latest status of evacuation orders can be found here. An evacuation shelter has been established at Palisades Recreation Center, 851 Alma Real Drive, Pacific Palisades. Several roads are closed in the vicinity of the fire, including Malibu Canyon Road and a section of the Pacific Coast Highway; full details on road closures in the vicinity of the fire can be found here. Power has been shut off for much of Malibu.

Depending on the progression of the wildfires, the status of nearby roads could change over the coming hours and days. Authorities could close additional routes within the wildfire complex and evacuate more communities depending on fire activity and the needs of response operators. Residents' return will probably disrupt traffic flows after authorities lift evacuation orders. Power outages are likely in affected areas. Low visibility from smoke and possible ashfall will likely contribute to traffic delays and congestion in the region.