Fires 100% contained at military training area on Big Island; 1,500 to 1,800 acres burned

The Keamuku Maneuver Area Complex Fire is 100 percent contained, with approximately 1500-1800 total acres burned between the two fires, according to a news release from the U.S. Army Garrison Pōhakuloa Training Area on the Big Island.

Three U.S. Army helicopters from the 25th Infantry Division on Oʻahu continued to conduct water bucket drops Wednesday morning, with 45 water bucket drops totaling nearly 38,000 gallons of water.

On Tuesday, 97 bucket drops were performed with nearly 91,000 gallons of water.

Total water bucket drops for the entire incident, which began Feb. 12 with two fires ignited by lightning strikes, are 222 water bucket drops with 200,000 gallons of water.

The military’s fire and emergency services team will continue to monitor the area.

“Thank you for the incredible teamwork of everyone involved in fighting this fire,” said Lt. Col. Kevin Cronin, commander of the Pōhakuloa Training Area. “From the brave firefighters, to the incredible dozer operators, to the U.S. Army military helicopter crews sent over from O’ahu, everyone’s team efforts are truly inspiring. We remain thankful to our incredible community for their support, and are proud to be a member of this team of teams.”