Update: Scrap metal fire forces evacuations in North Kona; no injuries reported

Tuesday 9:25 a.m. update: A scrap metal fire in Kona forced the evacuation of businesses as a dense plume of toxic smoke billowed from the blaze.

Hawai‘i Fire Department responded to Big Island Scrap Metal, 74-0589 Honokohau St., on Monday at 3 p.m. When they arrived on scene they found a 50-foot-by-50-foot area with scrap metals burning. Employees on scene were using an excavator and hoses to attempt extinguishment.

Emergency responders evacuated a half mile downwind of the fire toward Queen Ka‘ahumanu Highway as the smoke moved toward businesses. Once water supply was established, firefighters used a deck gun along with multiple smaller handlines to extinguish the blaze, according to a release from the fire department. 

Hazmat Company 21 monitored air quality in the area and downwind of fire.  Company employees assisted Co.7 with the operation of the excavator to spread out the material to better cool down and put out any hotspots.

After the fire was extinguished, crews continued monitoring air quality until all areas were reading zero on the monitors. Evacuation notice was lifted at 4:35 p.m. 

Original post: Motorists are advised to avoid Honokōhau Street in North Kona as emergency responders stamp out a fire.

According to Hawai‘i Island police, the blaze is under control but has resulted in a large amount of smoke lingering in the immediate area along Queen Ka’ahumanu Highway. Nearby businesses have been evacuated.

Motorists are advised to avoid the area to prevent significant traffic backups and other issues.

More information about this incident will be provided as it becomes available.