Wildland fire south of Waikōloa Village continues

Hawai‘i Fire Department reports the wildland fire that sparked late the afternoon of July 10 continues south of Waikōloa Village in South Kohala.

Hawai‘i Island police reported just after 7:30 a.m. July 11 that all roads in the Waikōloa area are open — including the portion of Waikōloa Road, from Paniolo Avenue to Highway 190 (Mamalahoa Highway/Hawai’i Belt Road), previously closed overnight as firefighters continued to battle the blaze.

“Exercise caution when driving through the area as crews are still fighting the fires and apparatus may be traversing roadways,” said Hawai‘i County Civil Defense in a message at 7:48 a.m. Saturday.

Officials reported late Friday night that no injuries were reported and there is no threat to Waikōloa Village as the fire — pushed by strong north-northeast and later east winds — moved south, away from the community.

The situation continues to unfold. Updates will be provided if and when conditions change.