Maalea Fire grows to 5,800 acres, now 75% contained

(Update:  12p 6/9/10)

The Maalaea fire is now 75% contained.  A noon update provided by the county notes the fire grew to 5,800 acres in size since last report.

Both lanes of Honoapiilani Highway remain open to traffic. However, motorists are cautioned that wind conditions could adversely affect the fire and cause intermittent road closures. Maui Police will continue to post updates on the county’s hotline : 986-1200.

Image courtesy County of Maui.

Today, 40 firefighters from the Wailuku, Lahaina and Kahului fire stations are on scene. Fire crews are aided by 3 water tankers, 2 bulldozers and 5 helicopters – supplied by Windward Aviation and Pacific Helicopter. In addition, 20 State Department of Forestry and Wildlife firefighters are also on scene.

No injuries are reported and currently there is no threat to structures.