Large wildfire in Southern California scorches nearly 4,000 acres

Los Angeles: A major wildfire in Malibu, Southern California, continues to blaze, having burned nearly 4,000 acres, as reported by city officials. The fire, named the Franklin Fire, began Monday night near Malibu Creek State Park in Los Angeles County. By Wednesday morning, it had expanded by an additional 600 acres, with over 1,500 firefighters working to control the situation.

Approximately 18,000 individuals, along with 8,100 homes and businesses, are currently under evacuation orders or warnings, according to Los Angeles County Sheriff Robert Luna. Several shelters have been set up for those displaced by the fire. A Red Flag Warning is in effect until Thursday afternoon, and as of now, the fire is only 7% contained.