Brush Fire Shuts Down Portion of Highway 19 in Hāmākua Area

Highway 19 on the Hilo side of Honoka‘a is closed due to a brush fire, officials reported this afternoon, June 4.

Hawai‘i Fire Department responded to mile markers 34-36 near Pa‘auilo. There is heavy smoke on the road and the area is expected to remain closed for the next several hours, according to Hawai‘i County Civil Defense Agency.

Fire crews from Area I have responded to the scene, however, an engine and tanker from Area II’s Waimea station are also assisting.

As there are no available detours around this location, officials advise going around the area using the Daniel K. Inouye Highway, also known as Saddle Road, for cross-island travel.

This is a developing story. More information will be provided as more details become available.