Watch: High Winds Fan Flames of Waimea Brush Fire

Highway 190 between the Lalamilo Farm Road and Waikoloa Road due to the ongoing brush fire in Waimea, which has grown to 14,000 acres due to shifting wind conditions.

Hawai‘i Fire Department and DLNR’s Division of Forestry and Wildlife firefighters are on scene and continue to battle the blaze.

Fire Chief Kazuo Todd confirmed small sheds and one confirmed vehicle have been consumed in the blaze. Todd captured video of wind fanning flames along the roadway.

County authorities have ordered the evacuation of the Pu‘ukapu Homestead and Waiki‘i Ranch communities. Residents who are close enough to see the fire should evacuate the area. A shelter is available to displaced residents at the Waimea District Park in Kamuela.

The Old Saddle Road remains closed at this time. Drivers are asked to remain cautious of an increase of animals on the roadways.

Residents who relocate to the shelter are asked to practice COVID-19 protocols, including wearing a mask, socially distancing, and remaining in same-household groups.