Olinda Brush Fire Burns Forest Area Near Bird Sanctuary

A six-acre brush fire in Olinda Friday is being attributed to a downed power line.  The incident was reported at 12:27 p.m. on Friday, October 2, 2009.  County officials say a large tree limb fell onto a power line, which then ignited grass along an access road in the area.

Photo Credit: Kenyon Smith.

Maui Firefighter Troy Tendo fights a 6-acre brush fire in Olinda, sparked by downed power lines on Friday. (Click Image to Enlarge) Photo Credit: Kenyon Smith.

Strong, swirling winds, then pushed the fire through the forested area.  County Communications Director Mahina Martin issued a press release saying the fire was fueled by a thick layer of pine needles and other dead plant material covering the forest floor.

The fire burned the forested area across from the Olinda Bird Sanctuary.

No homes were in danger and no injuries were reported.  The fire was extinguished at 7:30 p.m. that same night.

(Posted by Wendy Osher)