A wildland fire that ignited yesterday evening in Waikoloa has blazed through 70 acres, as reported by authorities. Per a statement from the Hawai‘i Fire Department, obtained by KHON2, firefighting crews were stationed throughout the night to tackle several persistent hot spots and contain the spread. The fire was said to be headed south, steering clear from residential zones, with a safety measure leading to the closure of Pua Amelia Street for the time being as crews combat the blaze. Residents have been cautioned to steer clear of the threatened area for their safety.

On that evening, crews from the Hawai‘i Fire Department, including Companies 16, 14, 9, and Chopper 2 responded swiftly to the spreading fire, fighting flames and smoke that were visible 100 yards from Waikōloa Gardens and Pua Melia Street, according to updates from Big Island Now. The terrain's challenges, featuring dry grass, gulches, and uneven ground, necessitated access through Quarry Road as better means, the department noted.

With the help of multiple engines, tankers, brush trucks, and helicopter support, initial attacks secured all perimeters of the fire which began at 6:15 p.m. and was active throughout the night. The fire had expanded to 75 acres by 10:14 p.m. yesterday, but no injuries were reported. To ensure vigilance against any unforeseen flare-ups, two brush trucks were assigned to remain on-site overnight, monitoring the situation closely.

The cause of the Waikōloa fire remains a mystery. However, fire officials mentioned that the area where the fire started is a common playground for children from a neighboring housing complex. This mention has not established a definitive link between the fire's origin and this detail but is a factor under consideration as the investigation proceeds. All pertinent details regarding this incident will continue to be closely followed and updated as more information becomes available.