Update: Small brush fire on Big Island burns 10 acres

Update 4:26 p.m. Thursday: A brush fire that forced a road closure in North Kohala Thursday morning was extinguished by the afternoon.

Hawai‘i Fire Department responded to the blaze burning next to Queen Ka‘ahumanu Highway and Kawaihae Road at 7:51 a.m. When crews arrived on scene, five acres had been scorched and winds were blowing east at 15 mph.

According to fire officials, no evacuation orders were issued and no structures were in danger.

Traffic detoured through Kohala Ranch Road. The flames were contained by 9:02 p.m., and traffic on Kawaihae Road reopened to one lane.

The fire was out by 12:42 p.m., and approximately 10 acres burned.

Update 10:04 a.m. Thursday: The Hawai‘i County Civil Defense Agency reports the small brush fire in North Kohala is contained and Kawaihae Road has partially reopened.

Queen Kaahumanu Highway is open, and Kawaihae Road has one lane contraflow.

Original post: Kawaihae Road is closed due to a wildland fire that ignited in North Kohala this morning, where five acres have burned.

The fire was reported near the Kawaihae Road and Queen Ka‘ahumanu Highway intersection. Hawai‘i Fire Department’s two choppers are currently on scene doing water drops.

The Hawai‘i Fire Battalion Chief along with five brushtrucks, four engines, and three tactical tenders also responded.

It is unclear if any structures are threatened at this time. Motorists are advised to avoid the area if possible.

More information will be provided as it becomes available.