Brush Fire Forces Road Shutdowns, Shelter Open

An afternoon brush fire closed down several roads and put homes in danger in Kailua-Kona today, but as nightfall took over, conditions settled and roads slowly opened. .

At 3:22 p.m., Hawaii Island police reported that the fire had closed down Highway 19 between Henry and Lako Streets, as well as Hualalai Road between Nani Kailua and Route 19. Shortly thereafter, Hawaii County Civil Defense officials opened up a shelter at Kekuaokalani Gym on the Old Kona Airport Park grounds.

In a radio message, Civil Defense told motorists to avoid Kuakini Highway between Palani Road and Honalo. South Bound motorists were asked to use Palani Road to Ali’i Drive. North bound drivers coming from Kuakini Highway were asked to use Highway 180 to the Palani Junction.

UPDATE (4:54 p.m.): Hawaii County Civil Defense reports that the Hokulia Bypass has been opened until 9 p.m.

UPDATE (5:48 p.m.): Police says Kuakini Highway is now open to traffic. Queen Kaahumanu extension South of Palani Road / North of Kuakini Highway remains closed.

UPDATE: (8:47 p.m.): The Brush fire is now under control, reports the Hawaii Fire Department. Also, according to Hawaii Island police, Queen Ka’ahumanu Highway and  Kuakini Highway have re-opened. Hualalai Road is still shut down.

UPDATE (9:31 p.m.): All roads in Kailua-Kona are now open, according to Hawaii County police. Officials are asking motorists to use caution in the Pines subdivision. Fire crews will stay there overnight to monitor conditions.