Golden State Today

Governor Gavin Newsom announced that California has secured a Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG) from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to aid in combating the Franklin Fire in Malibu. This federal assistance aims to provide necessary resources for fire suppression efforts.

"Fire officials and first responders are working relentlessly to protect lives and property from the Franklin Fire. California is grateful for this federal support, which bolsters these efforts. I urge all residents in affected areas to stay alert and follow evacuation orders," stated Governor Newsom.

The Franklin Fire began late Monday night in Malibu Canyon, near South Malibu Canyon Road and Francisco Ranch Road. The fire has burned over 1,822 acres, leading to widespread evacuations in Malibu.

The FMAG will enable local, state, and tribal agencies involved in firefighting efforts to apply for reimbursement of up to 75 percent of their eligible costs related to fire suppression. This grant is funded through the President’s Disaster Relief Fund on a cost-share basis.

In response to Red Flag fire weather conditions declared by the National Weather Service as a Particularly Dangerous Situation, the Governor’s Office of Emergency Services had prepositioned firefighting resources across Los Angeles, Riverside, Orange, and Ventura counties.

Residents in Los Angeles and Ventura counties, along with those in the Inland Empire, San Diego County valleys, and inland Orange County are advised to remain cautious and adhere to instructions from local authorities during these critical fire weather conditions expected on Tuesday and Wednesday.