A brush fire that ignited on the mountainside of Waianae last Sunday was largely contained by late afternoon, the Honolulu Fire Department reported. Honolulu's firefighters were dispatched around 12:30 p.m. to the blaze near Kapaekahi Street and Kukai Place, and by 4:50 p.m., the fire was reported to be 90% contained. KHON2 noted that no Public Safety Power Shutdown was necessary, according to Hawaiian Electric (HECO).
Throughout the day, efforts by a total of 16 HFD ground units and HFD Air 1 were mobilized to control the spread of the flames. An aerial assault began mid-afternoon after the fire was seen spreading to the mountain's summit. KITV detailed the progression of containment, stating the fire went from 50% contained at 2:39 p.m. to 75% at 3:30 p.m., indicating a swift response from the fire crews.
In addition to the HFD, the Honolulu Police Department also responded to the area to assist with the situation on the ground. Fortunately, despite the fire's size and potential threat, it has been confirmed by Hawaii News Now that no evacuations were ordered and no injuries have been reported. The fire burned through an area estimated at 42 acres before the crew's efforts significantly slowed its advance. The cause of the brush fire remains under investigation, and officials will be monitoring the situation to prevent any resurgence of flames.
