Mamalahoa Highway remains closed as firefighters battle three brush fires

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Mamalahoa Highway remains closed Tuesday night between its intersection with the new Daniel K. Inoyue Highway and Puu Lani Ranch in Puuanahulu, according to the Hawaii County Police Department. Residents can access Puu Lani Ranch from Kaiminani Drive on the Kona side.

Mamalahoa Highway remains closed Tuesday night between its intersection with the new Daniel K. Inoyue Highway and Puu Lani Ranch in Puuanahulu, according to the Hawaii County Police Department. Residents can access Puu Lani Ranch from Kaiminani Drive on the Kona side.

Motorists are asked to use alternative routes including Waikoloa Road and Queen Kaahumanu Highway while fire crews remain on the scene.

Firefighters are battling three fires in an area spanning from mile markers 14 to 23 on Mamalahoa Highway, also known as Highway 190.

One of the fires, reported on Monday afternoon near mile marker 14, burned about 500 acres and is deemed under control and contained.

The two other fires, which ignited Tuesday afternoon near mile markers 16 and 23, have been deemed suspicious in nature. The fire near mile marker 16 was last listed at 40 acres. Firefighters were able to contain the blaze near mile marker 23 to about 1/4 acre.

Anyone with information or who may have witnessed any suspicious activity in the area is asked to call police at 935-3311.