A brush fire in Kahikinui, Maui, led to evacuation orders and emergency response efforts on Sunday. Residents near Mile Markers 24 and 25 were told to evacuate as strong winds spread the fire. The Maui Emergency Management Agency issued alerts through the Genasys Protect app. The fire was first reported at a quarter-acre but grew to 20 acres by 10:30 a.m. and reached 200 acres by the afternoon, according to the County of Maui.
An evacuation center was opened at the King Kekaulike High School gym, and a temporary evacuation point was set up near Grandma’s Coffee House. Road closures were in place on Pi’ilani Highway between Mile Markers 20 and 41 due to firefighting operations. The fire, which had no initial containment, moved upslope and westward through difficult terrain. Mayor Richard Bissen signed an Emergency Proclamation to allow access to federal assistance programs, as reported by the County of Maui.
On Monday, the wildfire in Kahikinui was mapped at approximately 330 acres with 80% containment. The response involved six engine companies from County of Maui Department of Fire and Public Safety, multiple air assets, and additional support from state and private agencies. Overnight drone flights identified hotspots, but no flare-ups, injuries, or structural damage were reported. Evacuation orders remained in place, and a shelter was relocated to Keokea Community Center after the high school gym was closed for summer classes. Crews and contractors continued working in steep, hard-to-access areas to ensure safety, and officials urged residents to sign up for Genasys Protect and Maui Emergency Management Agency Alerts for timely updates.
