Latest Event Updates

Pepperdine Monitoring the Palisades Wildfire

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University officials are monitoring the Palisades wildfire in the Pacific Palisades, which is currently 20 acres, and officials predict it may grow to 200 acres in the next 20 minutes as the winds are pushing it from the northeast toward the Pacific Ocean. The fire is not presently a threat to the Malibu campus, though smoke from the fire is visible from campus. 

Please be advised of the following:

  • Community members whose homes are affected by the fire or road closures should follow the directions of their local governmental agencies. 
  • Road condition information is available on the University’s Road Condition hotline at 310.506.ROAD (7623).
  • The latest information from Pepperdine’s EOC is also available on the University’s Emergency Information Page.

This entry was posted in Malibu.

Red Flag Warning with High Winds

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The National Weather Service issued a Red Flag Warning for Los Angeles and Ventura Counties for Tuesday, January 7, 2025, at 10 AM to Thursday, January 9, 2025, at 6 PM due to sustained Santa Ana winds of 35-50 miles per hour (MPH) and gusts up to 80 MPH accompanied by low relative humidity. The strongest winds are predicted between Tuesday at 10 AM and Wednesday at 6 PM.

Topanga Canyon is closed in both directions to all but local traffic from Mulholland Highway to Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) and is likely to remain closed throughout the Red Flag Warning.

Normal operations, including classes, will continue on Tuesday and are expected to continue throughout the week at all Southern California Pepperdine campuses. Power outages may be possible, and if they occur, the University will provide additional instructions responsive to the situation.

In the event of an extended power outage, the EOC will regularly post updates at the following locations:

  • Main doors to the Lighthouse in the Tyler Campus Center
  • Main doors to the Caruso School of Law
  • Pier 18 Package Lockers adjacent to Banowsky Hall
  • Main doors to the Villa Executive Center

As always, employees and students are encouraged to drive slowly and carefully, prioritizing personal safety. High winds can cause downed power lines and trees. Remain informed about conditions for Pepperdine’s Southern California campuses by utilizing the following resources: 

Greater Los Angeles road conditions can be viewed online at www.sigalert.com.

This entry was posted in Calabasas, Malibu.

Red Flag Warning – December 16-17, 2024

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The National Weather Service issued a Red Flag Warning for Los Angeles and Ventura Counties for Tuesday, December 17, 2024 at 3 PM to Wednesday, December 18, 2024 at 6 PM due to Santa Ana winds of 20-40 MPH and gusts up to 60 MPH accompanied by low relative humidity.

Red Flag Warnings issued by the National Weather Service identify time periods when conditions are ideal for wildfires. During Red Flag warnings it is especially important to:

  • Report any signs of smoke or flames immediately to emergency responders. If on the Malibu campus, call Public Safety at 310.506.4441. At all other locations report smoke/flames by calling 911;
  • Remember Pepperdine is a smoke free campus; in all other locations, use caution when disposing of cigarettes and ensure that they are completely extinguished. 
  • Minimize any use of open flame in outdoor settings; and
  • Consider taking down umbrellas and moving patio furniture inside.

During Red Flag conditions, Southern California Edison (SCE) may issue a Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS), a preemptive deenergization of electrical circuits in an attempt to prevent power lines from starting a potential wildfire. This may result in the temporary loss of power for a Pepperdine campus. Further details on a PSPS and how you can prepare are available here. 

The EOC is monitoring the situation and is prepared to respond to potential wildfires. In the event of a wildfire near the Malibu Campus, University officials are prepared to activate the Shelter-In-Place protocol, whereby the Pepperdine community remains on campus in a few centralized buildings, where shelter, food, water, and counseling and medical services are available. This plan is approved annually by the LA County Fire Department and has proven historically safe and useful to Pepperdine in past wildfires. 

Additional information regarding Red Flag Warnings and Pepperdine’s wildfire response plans is available on the University’s Emergency Information Page.

This entry was posted in Calabasas, Malibu.

Malibu Canyon is Open

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Officials have re-opened Malibu Canyon Road to all traffic. As always, please drive carefully and remain informed about conditions for Pepperdine’s Southern California campuses by utilizing the following resources: 

Greater Los Angeles road conditions can be viewed online at sigalert.com.

This entry was posted in Calabasas, Malibu.