Crews Respond to Large Brush Fire in Kaunakakai

File photo by Wendy Osher.

By Wendy Osher

(Update: 6:51 p.m., Jan. 29, 2012)

The 200 acre fire on Molokai was called 100% contained at 6 p.m., but not under control.

Fire officials say the blaze got within 50 feet from homes in Kalamaula Mauka, just west of Kaunakakai; but no damage was reported.

A total of 28 fire personnel, (five from Lahaina), two county tankers, and one county loader were also assisting in fighting the blaze.

Fire officials say Engines 4, 9, and 12, and Tanker 4 will remain on scene throughout the night to monitor and continue mop up operations.

(Update: 4:03 p.m., Jan. 29, 2012)

A fire in Kaunakakai has burned an estimated 200 acres, and was called 60% contained at last report.

The Maui Fire Department’s, Air-2 helicopter is on its way to Molokai with extra fuel.

Maui Fire Services Chief Lee Mainaga said the extra air support will provide assistance for crews already on scene.

So far, there are no damages reported, and no injuries.

(Posted: 3:53 p.m., Jan. 29, 2012)

Maui firefighters are battling a large brush fire in Kaunakakai, reported at 1:04 p.m. on Sunday, January 29, 2012, off of Hoomalu Drive on Molokai.

The fire department’s Engine-4, Engine-9, Tanker-4, and Engine-12, along with two Public Works tankers, and the department;s Air-1 helicopter were on scene at last report.  Crews from Ladder-3 and Battalion Chief 6 were also en route to Molokai to assist.

Molokai fire crews also responded to two separate brush fires on Saturday in Hoolehua.

The first brushfire started at 11:22 a.m., on Kalae Highway, near Maunaloa Avenue. The 1,600 square foot fire was brought under control at 11:28 a.m. and extinguished at 11:45 a.m.

The second fire started at 3:10 p.m., on Keonelele Avenue and Launui Street, West of Hoolehua Airport. Crews had the 9,000 square foot fire under control at 3:33 p.m. and extinguished at 4:25 p.m.

The cause of both fires was undetermined, and no damages or injuries were reported at either incident.