Local Malibu radio station provides vital updates during Bryson fire

Local radio stations have proven crucial sources of lifesaving information during emergencies, including the recent Bryson fire in Malibu, according to reports from dailynews.com, sgvtribune.com, and ocregister.com.

The low-power FM station KBUU, broadcasting at 99.1 FM and online at RadioMalibu.net, suspended its usual programming to provide fire updates, interviews with city officials, and evacuation and road closure information as the fire spread last Thursday.

Founded and run by Hans Laetz, his wife Diane, and volunteers, KBUU features a mix of alternative and modern rock, Americana music, news, and talk. Despite its 50-watt low-power signal, it also broadcasts digitally with additional channels including an 80s tribute station and J-Pop.

During the fire, Hans Laetz was on air throughout the night, conducting interviews and airing pre-recorded updates. He committed to going live anytime if the situation changed and included relevant reports from other radio and television sources.

About 30 miles south, Rancho Palos Verdes launched PV Emergency Radio at 1680 AM, a 10-watt low-power station aimed at reaching most of the city, further highlighting the growing recognition of local radio’s role in emergencies.