Mop-up operations continue Wednesday to extinguish a brush fire that charred an estimated 1,022 acres in Ka‘u.
Mop-up operations continue Wednesday to extinguish a brush fire that charred an estimated 1,022 acres in Ka‘u.
Hawaii Fire Department and volunteer personnel spent Wednesday dousing hot spots and flareups within burn area which extends from Kaalualu Bay northwest toward South Point Road, said HFD Battalion Chief Warren Sumida.
As of Wednesday afternoon, the fire was listed as under control and contained, Sumida said.
Firefighters responded about 2:30 p.m. Sunday to a report of a brush fire near Kaalualu Bay that was being fanned by trade winds in a northwesterly direction toward South Point Road. Within 1.5 hours, the fire had grown to 250 acres. Firefighters gained control of the blaze late Sunday, keeping it at an estimated 1,022 acres.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
Firefighters will remain on the scene throughout Wednesday and overnight into Thursday to quash any flareups.
Motorists traversing South Point Road are asked to use caution because HFD equipment and personnel are in the area.