Pepperdine University Lifts Shelter-in-Place Order Amid Franklin Fire Threat
Pepperdine University has lifted a shelter-in-place order Tuesday morning amid the Franklin Fire in Los Angeles County, California, but warned it could reinstate the protocol if conditions worsen. Pepperdine has provided updates over the matter on social media, with the latest update stating that the shelter-in-place order has been lifted after assessing campus conditions at daybreak.
"Campus conditions are safe for members of the community to return to student residences and on-campus homes," the university wrote on X. "The community is strongly encouraged to remain on campus and stay off Malibu roads as first responders continue to respond to the Franklin fire, which continues to threaten Malibu."
After assessing campus conditions at daybreak, the university is lifting the shelter-in-place protocol. Campus conditions are safe for members of the community to return to student residences and on-campus homes. The community is strongly encouraged to remain on campus and stay…
— Pepperdine University (@pepperdine) December 10, 2024
According to Fox News, Pepperdine issued the shelter-in-place order for students until at least daylight (just before 7 a.m. Pacific Standard Time).
Footage posted online shows students watching the fire rage on as they remain inside campus buildings.
Pepperdine University students watch the #FranklinFire burn #Malibu from inside the campus' buildings https://t.co/p8n9vJHVCA pic.twitter.com/nzFTiEFYdT
— FOX 11 Los Angeles (@FOXLA) December 10, 2024
"The University understands the worst of the fire has pushed past Pepperdine," an earlier update posted to X reads. "However, there are smaller spot fires on campus that are not threatening life or structures, and fire resources remain on campus to address these spot fires as they occur."
The University understands the worst of the fire has pushed past Pepperdine. However, there are smaller spot fires on campus that are not threatening life or structures, and fire resources remain on campus to address these spot fires as they occur. Additionally, power remains out…
— Pepperdine University (@pepperdine) December 10, 2024
"Additionally, power remains out for much of Malibu, and therefore, to ensure the safety of our community, we will maintain the shelter-in-place protocol until at least daylight. The EOC will continue to update the community."
At least 1,700 acres have already been burned, officials say. According to CBS Mornings, the blaze parallels the mountain fire that took place last month, which killed at least three people, scorched about 200,000 acres, and destroyed over 200 homes.
A mandatory evacuation is in place in Southern California due to an explosive brush fire in Malibu.
— CBS Mornings (@CBSMornings) December 10, 2024
Officials say at least 1,700 acres have already burned, as high winds spread the fire. Students at Pepperdine University have been told to shelter in place. pic.twitter.com/WS6wrVScQy
Despite the shelter-in-place protocol being lifted, Pepperdine canceled classes Tuesday and postponed final exams to a later date. So far, no deaths or injuries have been reported.
Meanwhile, residents in the area have been evacuated, and others are under an evacuation warning.
According to the Los Angeles County Fire Department, units are on the ground and in the air.
Per Cal Fire, the fire took place at 10:50 p.m. Monday night, with the cause being under investigation.
Prayer for Those Affected by Franklin Fire
Heavenly Father,
We lift up the students, staff, and community of Pepperdine University as they face the challenges brought by the Franklin Fire. We pray for Your protection over everyone in harm’s way, strength for the first responders, and comfort for those who are anxious or displaced. May Your peace and provision surround them, and may the fires be swiftly controlled.
Amen.
Photo Credit: © Getty Images/Kara Capaldo
Originally published December 10, 2024.
