UPDATE: Hāmākua wildland fires burn about 3 acres in Honokaʻa area

Update at 8:02 a.m. Aug. 22, 2025: Firefighters extinguished three brush fires that burned about 3 acres the night of Aug. 21 at a homeless encampment near a former burn area on Lehua Street in Honokaʻa.

Hawai’i Fire Department responded at about 6:44 p.m. Thursday to a report of smoke in an area of Hāmākua near Honokaʻa.

Firefighters upon arrival discovered three fires actively burning in an empty homeless encampment off Lehua Street. Multiple fires were also found burning thick brush and trees.

Aerial support from Choppers 1 and 2 was also needed, while the D6 bulldozer was on site to provide additional assistance, creating a new fire break along the Hilo side of the fire.

The fires were brought under control by about 11 p.m. and extinguished by 11:30 p.m.

No property damage or injuries were reported. The fires remain under investigation.

Original post at 7:19 p.m Aug. 21, 2025: Hawai’i Fire Department is responding to multiple wildland fires near Honokaʻa in the Hāmākua District.

Hawaiʻi County Civil Defense reports that firefighters were dispatched to the scene at 6:44 p.m. and are monitoring the fire. 

There are no threats to property, and no suggested actions at this time.

Residents are urged to to remain alert.