Kaluakoi Brush Fire

Photo by Arianna Patterson

On June 20, around 1 p.m. Molokai fire crews arrived to find a brush fire partially in a gulch and being spread by the windy conditions in the area of 40 Maunaloa rd. Access to portions of the fire was difficult due to the steep terrain of the gulch, according to the Maui Fire Dept. Using tankers, heavy equipment and helicopters, fire crews were able to eventually contain the fire and stop it from crossing the highway. Public works heavy equipment were able to assist in cutting lines around the perimeter of the fire. By 7 p.m. on June 20, the estimated 50 acre fire was declared under control, but not fully extinguished. On the morning of June 21, a specialized wildland firefighting crew was airlifted into the area to assist with the work in more inaccessible areas, as helicopters continued to make water drops.
As of June 21, the Maui Fire Dept. reported that the containment lines have held up, with mop up continuing, and the fire described as fully contained, but still not extinguish.
While the blaze was close to several residencies, no evacuations were required and no injuries were reported. Maunaloa Hwy was closed temporarily on June 20 to allow crews to work on the road and prevent the fire from crossing the highway.