Malibu, United States - December 11, 2024 Firefighters battled through the night as the Franklin Fire surged across Puerco Canyon Ridge, threatening the Malibu RV Park and surrounding communities. Extreme fire behavior, driven by powerful Santa Ana winds and low humidity, forced emergency crews into urgent action. The Ventura County Fire Department (VCFD) Air Unit, equipped with Firehawk helicopters and night vision gear, supported Los Angeles County Fire by conducting critical night operations. Ground teams, including strike teams, dozers, and hand crews, worked to strengthen containment lines with retardant drops and handline construction. The fire’s spread, which spotted across Pacific Coast Highway toward Malibu Road, complicated efforts to suppress the flames. While structure threats were mitigated, one outbuilding sustained damage. A Red Flag Warning remains in effect for the Malibu Coast and Ventura Coastal Plain until 2 a.m. today, as firefighters focus on protecting property, infrastructure, and ensuring clear evacuation plans for impacted communities.