Burn ban issued for parts of Hawaiʻi Island as threat of critical fire weather continues

National Weather Service forecasters in Honolulu on Thursday issued a red flag warning in effect until 6 p.m. today for northwest, interior and southern portions of Hawai‘i Island because of forecast critical fire weather conditions.

Hawaiʻi County Mayor Kimo Alameda responded with an emergency proclamation that includes a ban on all outdoor burning and all outdoor open flames in the red flag warning areas to reduce the risk of wildfire.

Alameda’s proclamation also prohibits all “hot work” — which includes but is not limited to grinding, welding, flame cutting or other fire or spark-producing operations — in those locations.

Violations are punishable by a fine up to $1,000 per violation.

The public is advised to avoid parking on dry vegetation, as heat from vehicle exhaust systems can ignite dry grass.

Park vehicles on paved areas or other clear surfaces.