Update: Brush fire in Waikōloa contained after scorching 75 acres

10:14 p.m. Sunday update: No injuries were reported following a brush fire Sunday night that scorched 75 acres.

According to Hawai‘i Fire Department, crews responded to the incident at 6:15 p.m. As firefighters arrived on scene, they reported smoke and flames were visible as it moved southwest. The blaze was 100 yards from Waikōloa Gardens and Pua Melia Street.

Companies 16, 14, 9, and Chopper 2 responded to brush fire rapidly spreading in a Southwest direction. Best access was made through Quarry Road as the terrain was rough with dry grass covering gulches and uneven grounds.

Multiple engines, tankers, brush trucks, and Chopper 2 made initial attacks on all perimeters while simultaneously protecting housing structures. Two brush trucks will remain in the area overnight to monitor for any hot spots. 

The cause is unknown, however, fire officials say children from the nearby housing complex are known to play in the area.

Original post: Hawaiʻi County officials reported a small brush fire in Waikōloa at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, which spread to 70 acres before being contained.

“The fire has spread to approximately 70 acres, and Hawaiʻi Fire Department crews have reported that it is predominantly contained with units surrounding it,” according to a county a update sent ten minutes later at 7:40 p.m.

According to officials, several hot spots remain. Firefighting operations will continue throughout the night to ensure the fire is fully extinguished.

Pua Amelia Street is currently closed and will remain closed until further notice to ensure public safety and allow firefighters to conduct their operations without obstruction.

Currently, no structures are threatened, thanks to the winds pushing the fire southward, away from residential areas.

Hawaiʻi County officials report they continue to monitor the situation closely. Updates will be provided as more information becomes available.

Residents are urged to avoid the affected area to allow emergency personnel to manage the situation effectively.

Key Points:

• Fire Location: Waikōloa
• Current Burn Area: Approximately 70 acres
• Containment Status: Predominantly contained
• Fire Spread Direction: South, away from residential structures
• Road Closure: Pua Amelia Street
• Operations: Continuing throughout the night

The County will provide an update pending any substantial changes to current conditions. Residents in the area are asked to remain vigilant and follow all safety instructions provided by emergency personnel.