Green signs emergency proclamation in response to red flag warning

Hawai‘i Gov. Josh Green on Wednesday evening signed an emergency proclamation in response to the red flag warning issued earlier in the day by the National Weather Service in Honolulu for leeward sections of the state.

A red flag warning means conditions are favorable for wildfires to start and any that do will likely spread quickly.

The National Weather Service Honolulu area forecast discussion for Hawai’i from 3:56 a.m. today said a borderline red flag warning remains in effect until 6 p.m. today, as conditions are expected to be met for a few hours from late morning through afternoon.

Humidity levels will be the borderline factor, which are forecast to fall slightly below critical thresholds.

The proclamation enables rapid deployment of resources to mitigate risks in an effort to address existing and potential impacts caused by inclement weather conditions, in this case critical fire weather that could lead to wildfires.

Laws that might delay the execution of emergency functions are also suspended by the document.

It also advises the public to avoid actions that could create unnecessary dangers.

The public is urged to:

• Avoid activities that could spark a fire including open flames, campfires and outdoor grilling.
• Avoid using power tools that could produce sparks, as well as idling or parking vehicles on dry grass.
• Check with county authorities for any bans or restrictions related to these activities.

Green’s emergency proclamation will be in effect through Friday.

Additional resources are available at the Hawai‘i Wildfire Management Organization website, Hawai‘i Fire Department website and the Hawai‘i Department of Land and Natural Resources Division of Forestry and Wildlife website.

Residents are encouraged to stay vigilant and informed by monitoring local news media and Hawai‘i County Civil Defense for updates and warnings about high-risk areas.

You can also check the latest weather forecast and advisories, watches and warnings by visiting the National Weather Service Honolulu office website.

An executed copy of the governor’s emergency proclamation can be found online.