Kahikinui brush fire 80% contained, smoldering fire conditions continue

KAHIKINUI, Hawaii (KHON2) — Maui Fire Department firefighters continue efforts to contain an active brush fire in the Kahikinui area.

In an 8 a.m. update on Monday, June 16, Maui County officials reported that the brush fire has been mapped at approximately 330 acres and is 80% contained.

The Maui Police Department assisted in monitoring the fire overnight, utilizing drone flights, and reported that no nighttime flare-ups occurred.

Additionally, the county said no injuries or structural damages have been reported.

Crews from MFD, Department of Public Works and the State Department of Land and Natural Resources are working towards containment.

Officials said the fire is located in a “remote, challenging terrain that does not support walking,” and “smoldering fire conditions continue throughout the burn area.”

Background

The Kahikinui fire was initially reported just before 10 a.m. on Sunday, June 15. The quarter-acre fire quickly jumped to 200 acres by 4 p.m., then to 500 acres by 7 p.m.

Around 11 a.m., the Maui Emergency Management Agency issued an evacuation order for about 30 to 40 homes in the Kahikinui Homestead area.

Lieutenant Gov. Sylvia Luke and Maui Mayor Richard Bissen have both signed emergency proclamations in regards to the brush fire.

Road Closures

Maui County said road closures will remain in effect on Piilani Highway from Mile Marker 20 to 41 to ensure the safety of firefighting operations.

Residents are advised to avoid the area as officials work to contain and extinguish the fire.

Evacuation Shelter

A shelter has been set up at Keokea Community Center as of 7 a.m. on Monday, June 16.