Malibu Fire Destroys Homes, Fueled By Santa Ana Winds
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Wildfires in the Malibu area have forced many evacuations and shut down parts of the Pacific Coast Highway:
The winds — between 60 and 70 mph — could send embers flying "a mile or two," triggering flames wherever they land, Dominguez said. "With the erratic wind behavior, it's hard to see where they will land," he said. Authorities had aerial teams serving as lookouts, and sent helicopters and fire engines to areas as they became threatened, Dominguez said.The Los Angeles County Fire Department's Web site said the Malibu Wildfire had consumed more than 500 acres and, as of 9:50 a.m. (12:50 p.m. ET), was at 0 percent containment. "Several homes have been destroyed," the site said.
Hodge Castle, also known as Malibu Castle, has burnt to the ground. The nearby Malibu Presbyterian Church was also destroyed. Homes on the beach have been spotted in flames and people around Puerco Canyon are being asked to evacuate. The flames are being fueled by Santa Ana winds gusting as high as 100 MPH.
More on this story as it unfolds.
UPDATE: They are now saying over 1000 acres of land has been destroyed by the fire, with two commercial structures and three residences a total loss, and nine additional residences sustaining moderate damage mostly to exteriors. Also, Mailbu Castle, which burned to the ground, was in escrow and scheduled to be sold this week. Final price was assumed to be around $17 million dollars.
Our thoughts and prayers are with everyone involved. Just remember, things are replaceable, but you are not. Take any steps necessary to make sure you and your loved ones are safe.
