The Franklin Fire has emerged as a significant threat to the Malibu community in California, leading to extensive evacuations and considerable concern among residents. The wildfire ignited on Monday night and quickly escalated, scorching over 4,000 acres by midweek. It has resulted in numerous evacuation orders affecting thousands of residents and businesses within the area.
Authorities have reported that mandatory evacuation orders were issued predominantly in the Serra Retreat neighborhood, where numerous celebrities reside, including Dick Van Dyke.
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The Franklin Fire has already caused the destruction of several homes, and while no casualties have been reported, approximately 40,000 residents experienced power outages as fire crews managed the blazes. As efforts to control the fire continue, the cause still remains under investigation, even as officials emphasize that fire conditions remain hazardous due to the seasonal Santa Ana winds.
Dick Van Dyke’s Evacuation Experience
Dick Van Dyke, the beloved 98-year-old actor and Disney Legend, shared his evacuation experience with fans via social media. In a heartfelt post, he confirmed that he and his wife, Arlene Silver, successfully evacuated their Malibu home.
Thankfully, they managed to get out safely, although their cat Bobo managed to escape during the frantic departure. Van Dyke expressed concern for Bobo and prayed for his safety, as well as for the well-being of their community.
Arlene and I have safely evacuated with our animals except for Bobo escaped as we were leaving. We’re praying he’ll be ok and that our community in Serra Retreat will survive these terrible fires
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Van Dyke’s post garnered widespread support from fans who sent messages of hope and encouragement. Many expressed their relief that he was safe and shared their prayers for Bobo’s return, highlighting the strong connection between Van Dyke and his followers during this unsettling time.
Celebrity Responses to Wildfires
The Franklin Fire prompted a series of evacuations among other notable figures residing in Malibu. Cher, another significant celebrity in the area, confirmed that she and her pets left their home to seek shelter in a hotel. Barbra Streisand also resides in Malibu, and while it was unclear whether she had to evacuate, her publicist indicated she was safe.
Community reactions have been filled with compassion and solidarity as residents and fans alike rallied together in support of the affected individuals. The unfolding disaster has served as a reminder of the vulnerability faced by many in the region due to California’s frequent wildfires.
Ongoing Firefighting Efforts
Initially spreading rapidly, fire containment efforts against the Franklin Fire have faced challenges, with firefighters reporting only a small percentage of the fire controlled as of midweek. Over 1,500 firefighters have been deployed, alongside aerial units and ground resources, in a concerted effort to tackle the flames. Federal assistance has been made available, as California Governor Gavin Newsom declared a state of emergency for the affected areas.
We keep the people living in the path of the fire in our thoughts. If you live in the area and are ordered to evacuate, please listen to the authorities and leave immediately.
