MAUI FIRE DEPARTMENT photos

By The Maui News

KAHULUI – The Maui Fire Department (MFD) is battling a fire that was reported at 2:17 a.m. on July 25, in the area mauka of Kahekili Highway near Makaala Drive in Waiehu. As of about 7:30 a.m., the fire was estimated to be about 19 acres. As 10:40 a.m., MFD reported the fire was 80 percent contained.

The Maui Police Department closed Kahekili Highway from Makaala Drive to Waiehu Beach Road. The Maui Emergency Management Agency was partially activated at 4:51 a.m.

At 11:15 a.m. voluntary evacuations were lifted for residents of Wailuku Country Estates, Puuohala Village and Waiehu Terrace, while the MFD continues to battle a brush fire in the Waiehu area. A Temporary Evacuation Point that had been set up at Keopuolani Skate Park to provide information was closed. Continue to be vigilant, as the situation may change at a moment’s notice.

Maui Fire Department resources include three engines, three wildland trucks, three tankers and the Air One helicopter battling the fire. Two tankers and heavy equipment from private sector partners are also on the scene.

While no mandatory evacuations were issued, voluntary evacuations were in effect for residents of Wailuku Country Estates, Puuohala Village and Waiehu Terrace, while the Maui Fire Department battled the brush fire in the Waiehu area.

Community members with respiratory issues/concerns are advised to stay indoors or leave the area.

Maui Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) continues to monitor the situation.