FEMA Approves Federal Aid To Help Fight Kahana Ridge Fire On Maui

Kahana Ridge Fire. 10.22.19. PC: Jessica Malczewski

Today, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) approved the State of Hawai‘i’s request for federal aid to contain the Kahana Ridge fire on Maui. FEMA’s Fire Management Assistance Grant Program (FMAGP) offers federal funding for the mitigation, management, and control of fires deemed likely to constitute a major disaster.

“This new emergency federal funding will strengthen efforts to contain the Kahana Ridge fire and keep families safe. We’re thankful to FEMA for quickly approving our state’s request,” said U.S. Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawai‘i), a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee.

Yesterday, the State of Hawai‘i submitted a request for a FMAGP declaration for the Kahana Ridge fire on Maui. Within 24 hours, FEMA determined that the fire threatened such destruction as would constitute a major disaster and approved the state’s request.
Under the FMAGP, Hawai‘i may claim federal funding to cover the costs of equipment, supplies, and temporary repair of damages caused by firefighting. The grant will also cover the costs associated with emergency workers, including field camps, meals, and an emergency operations center.

According to the Maui Fire Department, the fire started Tuesday afternoon and by Wednesday morning had burned 964 acres. Firefighters most recently reported that the fire is 45 percent contained.