Wildfire in Malibu destroys homes, sends thousands fleeing

California Fire and Los Angeles County Fire Department waterbombing helicopters continued to make water drops on the Franklin fire over Malibu.

A ferocious fire tore through Malibu on Tuesday, destroying at least seven homes in one of California's most desirable areas, and forcing thousands to evacuate.

Multimillion-dollar properties, some owned by Hollywood celebrities, were in the path of the blaze, which exploded late Monday, fanned by powerful winds and tinder-dry brush.

Firefighters were unable to get a foothold in the steep canyons that surround the tony enclave near Los Angeles, where towering flames were devouring hillsides, blanketing the air in choking smoke.