Backhoe Strikes Underground Powerline Sparking Molokaʻi Brush Fire

Brush Fire, Maui Now graphic.

By Maui Now Staff

An afternoon brush fire in Kalewa on Molokaʻi was sparked when a backhoe struck an underground powerline while digging in the area, according to fire officials.

The fire burned a total of about 2 acres of brush off of Uluanui Road.

The blaze was reported at 2:14 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 11, 2014, and was brought under control by 3:11 p.m., according to department reports.

Crews responding to the incident included firefighters from the Kauanakakai, Hoʻolehua, and Pukoʻo fire stations on Molokaʻi, as well as an air unit from Maui that few in to assist.

As of 4:30 p.m., ground crews remained on scene conducting mop-up operations.

No injuries were reported.