Press Release Office of the Mayor County of Maui
Kaunakakai, Molokai – A brush fire that was first reported at 12:05
yesterday, August 29, has burned an estimated 5,000 acres north of
Kaunakakai town. The fire that initially burned mauka began to head
towards Kaunakakai town early this morning, coming as close as across
the street to Hotel Molokai.
One residence sustained damage to its garage and at approximately 2:00
am voluntary evacuations were advised. The brush fire approached a
residential area of approximately 100 homes as the wind direction
shifted throughout the night and early morning hours. Over 30
firefighters were on scene throughout the night battling over 17
different finger extensions of the brush fire.
At sunlight, four helicopters returned to conduct water drops after
ceasing at nightfall Saturday due to safety precautions. Cooke Memorial
Pool in Kaunakakai is closed today while the pool is utilized by the
helicopters as a water source. Yesterday afternoon crews from Maui’s
Napili and Wailuku fire stations were dispatched to assist Molokai
firefighters. Molokai’s three fire stations are located in Kaunakakai,
Hoolehua and Pukoo.
The State Department of Land and Natural Resources’ Division of
Forestry and Wildlife (DOFAW) has dispatched 23 of its wildland
firefighters who will be flown to Molokai today.
One firefighter was treated for smoke inhalation at Molokai General
Hospital yesterday and remains in stable condition. No other injuries
are reported.
5 bulldozers, 2 loaders, and 3 water tankers are on scene from the
County’s Department of Public Works, State agencies and private
companies.
Fire officials report that no homes are in immediate danger at this
time. The cause of the fire is unknown. Residents are advised to keep
the roadways in the area clear to allow for travel by personnel, heavy
equipment and fire engines.
Filed under: News
