Wildfire at PTA Scorches 600 Acres

Department of the Army firefighters and partner first responders are currently responding to a wildfire burning on Pōhakuloa range complex and training area.

The fire began at approximately 7 a.m. on Thursday, near training area 22 (West of the impact area). The team of first responders includes:

• 8 federal firefighters from PTA
• 23 National Park firefighters with several brush trucks
• Hawai‘i County off-road tanker with several firefighters
• UH-60 Blackhawk helicopter from the 25th Combat Aviation Brigade

An estimated 600 acres have burned thus far. Firefighters are conducting back-burn operations to control the spread of the fire.

“The quick reaction and commitment by the first responders here, and across Hawai‘i Island reflects the teamwork and partnership we have when wildland fires occur,” said Lt. Col. Kevin Cronin, Commander U.S. Army Garrison Pohakuloa. “Mahalo to the team of team’s from the National Park team and Hawaii County.”

Residents and motorists near Daniel K. Inouye Highway may see smoke in the sky, but there is no threat to nearby roadways, facilities or people at this time.

The cause of the fire is under investigation.