Red flag warning issued for various areas of the Big Island

As Hawai‘i Fire Department battles a 200-acre blaze in Pāhala, the National Weather Service has issued a red flag warning for Hawai‘i Island to include the areas of North and South Kohala, North and South Kona, and Ka‘ū beginning this morning through the day.

Expect northeast winds 20 to 30 mph, with higher gusts and low humidity. A red flag warning means there are critical fire weather conditions forecasted. Strong, gusty trade winds, dry fuel, low relative-humidity, and warm temperatures could produce extreme fire behavior.

Any fires that develop will likely rapidly spread and be difficult to control. The public is advised to avoid any activity that involves using open flames such as grilling and camp fires. Do not park cars on dry grass after a trip.