College Students Shelter in Library as Fires Rip Through California

As the Franklin Fire continues to burn in Malibu, Pepperdine University is grappling with the impact of the blaze. A shelter-in-place order remains in effect this morning for students and faculty. Authorities are urging residents to stay indoors as the fire, which has consumed over 1,800 acres, rages nearby. The university has been providing updates via its official social media accounts since shortly before 1:00 AM.

While officials say the fire has moved past the university’s Malibu campus, smaller spot fires remain a concern. “We want to assure everyone that the most intense part of the fire has passed, but crews are still working to extinguish isolated fires on campus,” the university posted on X (formerly Twitter). “Our top priority is the safety of everyone, and we’ll continue sheltering in place until daylight.”

Daylight is expected around 7:00 AM Pacific Time, and the shelter-in-place order will remain active until then. “Power remains out in much of Malibu, so we are taking extra precautions to ensure the safety of our community,” the post continued.

Classes and Exams Canceled, Winter Break Plans Disrupted

Due to ongoing safety concerns, all campus operations have been suspended for the day. “Final exams scheduled for today have been canceled,” said Mike Friel, a university spokesperson. “An updated schedule will be provided later today, and we are in constant communication with the Deans’ offices to ensure students are informed.”

The Tyler Campus Center and Payson Library are designated as shelters for students and faculty affected by the fire. “Our Emergency Operations Committee is actively managing the situation,” the university added, emphasizing the importance of following evacuation protocols if necessary.

Firefighters Battle Uncontrollable Blaze Near Malibu

The Franklin Fire, which started at 10:50 PM on December 9, has escalated into a third-alarm blaze. Los Angeles County Firefighters are working tirelessly on the ground and in the air to contain the fire, but it is currently 0% contained. “The fire has already scorched more than 1,800 acres,” the Cal Fire Department reported. “We’re focusing on containing the flames and protecting nearby homes and structures.”

The fire has led to the closure of Pacific Coast Highway between Topanga Canyon Boulevard and Corral Canyon Road, creating significant traffic disruptions. “The high winds have made containment challenging, but we’re doing everything we can to protect lives and property,” said a spokesperson for the Los Angeles County Fire Department.

Evacuations and Safety Measures Underway

Evacuations are currently in place for residents in Malibu, with additional areas under warning. Fortunately, no injuries or fatalities have been reported thus far, but the fire remains unpredictable. As of now, firefighters continue to battle the blaze in a bid to protect Malibu’s coastline and its residents.

The fire has sparked concerns among Malibu residents, many of whom have experienced wildfires in recent years. Local residents voiced their worries on social media: “We’re doing everything we can to stay safe. It’s terrifying how quickly these fires spread,” said one Malibu resident. “I’m hoping for the best but preparing for the worst.”

A Community on Edge

As the fire continues to grow, officials are stressing the importance of staying updated on evacuation orders. The Los Angeles County Incident Response website is being updated regularly with information regarding evacuation routes and emergency services.

For Pepperdine students, the ongoing situation presents an uncertain end to the semester, but the community remains resilient. “It’s a stressful time, but we’re all staying together and supporting each other,” one student shared. “Safety is the priority, and we trust the university and fire crews to keep us safe.”

Stay tuned to local news and official updates for the latest information on the Franklin Fire and its impact on Malibu and surrounding areas.