Big fire in West Maui still burning
Advertiser Staff
OLOWALU, Maui — Maui firefighters last night were monitoring a large brushfire in the Ukumehame area of West Maui.
The fire prompted police to issue a precautionary advisory to residents of a subdivision in nearby Olowalu. Residents mauka of the Honoapi'ilani Highway at Olowalu, including Olowalu General Store, were asked to prepare to leave the area should there be a need to.
As of 9:30 p.m., the fire remained mauka of the subdivision and posed no immediate threat. No evacuations were taking place.
The fire was first reported at 2:25 p.m.
The American Red Cross opened an emergency shelter at the War Memorial Gym in Wailuku for those who may become displaced.
Three helicopters and the Fire Department's wildland fire crew were dispatched to assist fire crews. Four of the six water tankers on scene have been provided by West Maui Land Co., Kiewit Pacific Co. and Goodfellow Brothers Inc.
The fire was estimated to be 100 acres at 5:30 p.m. No injuries were reported, and no structures were reported damaged. Traffic was not affected.
