A fast-moving brush fire near Kawaihae triggered emergency alerts across South Kohala on Saturday evening, prompting a wildfire advisory as Hawaii Fire Department crews rushed to the scene. County officials urged nearby residents to stay sharp, keep an eye on official updates, and be ready to follow instructions if conditions changed.
According to a Hawaii County Civil Defense message amplified by the Hawaii Emergency Management Agency, the Hawaii Fire Department reported a wildfire burning near Kawaihae and a wildfire advisory was issued for South Kohala. In sharing the alert, the state agency reminded the public that “Hawaii Emergency Management Agency's social media accounts are not monitored 24/7” and that anyone facing an immediate threat should call 9-1-1. You can see the agency's post on X.
Civil Defense msg: 07-25-2026 06:11 PM. Wildfire Advisory for South Kohala. HFD reports a wildfire near Kawaihae. Kawaihae residents advised to stay informed. https://x.com/i/status/2081231495721820210
— Hawaii EMA (@Hawaii_EMA) Jul 26, 2026
Officials' updates
This is the latest in a string of leeward-side fires this month. Earlier in July, a wildland blaze near Waikōloa Village forced limited evacuations and road closures while crews worked to steer flames away from homes, Hawaii News Now reported. Roughly 200 acres burned there before firefighters pushed the fire away from residential areas, according to officials.
How to stay informed
Hawaii County Civil Defense is urging residents in and around Kawaihae to keep close tabs on verified information, sign up for local alerts, and follow directions from first responders if they are given. For official notifications, sign-ups, and ongoing updates, visit Hawaii County Civil Defense.
Why wildfire risk is elevated
Leeward areas of the Big Island, including Kawaihae, face elevated wildfire danger when strong trade winds and low humidity line up, a combo that can turn small sparks into fast-moving flames. Hawaiian Electric has warned that these conditions can trigger Public Safety Power Shutoff watches in South Kohala, and state agencies have flagged an active wildfire season. For more background on these risk conditions and related precautions, see Hawaiian Electric.
Fire crews were reported on scene and authorities said additional information will be shared as it becomes available. Anyone who feels they are in immediate danger should call 9-1-1. This story will be updated if officials release further details from Hawaii County Civil Defense or Hawaii EMA.
