Two Brush Fires Burning

The Big Island has two brush fires burning near the Keamuku Maneuver Area at the Pōhakuloa Training Area. Firefighters have been on the scene since Sunday afternoon and are working to control the flames, which so far pose no threat to businesses, roads, or homes.

The County of Hawai’i released this statement on February 12, 2023:

Lightning has been identified as the cause of two wildland brush fires which broke out about 3 p.m. Sunday afternoon in a remote area mauka of Mamalahoa Highway (Highway 190).

The fires, which are in the vicinity of the Keamuku Maneuver Area belonging to the U.S. Army’s Garrison at Pohakuloa Training Area (PTA), have burned a combined 40 acres as of 7 p.m. There were no units or troops training in the area. Currently, there is no threat to any community or structures. There are also no road closures.

Federal, County and volunteer firefighters, along with air assets from the U.S. Army and Hawaii County are engaged attempting to contain the fires, which are slowly burning south. Two bulldozers are also on the scene to assist with the firefighting.

Updates will also be coordinated with Hawai’i County Civil Defense to ensure the public is kept up to date. Residents will be informed if there is any change that may affect the public’s safety.

County of Hawai’i News Release