Half acre burned in fire at homeless encampment in Waiehu, Maui

A fire at a homeless encampment in Waiehu, Maui burned a half acre before being brought under control on Tuesday afternoon.

Fire officials say the blaze was located at the 1300 block of Malaihi Road, and started at around 2:33 p.m. on Tuesday, June 28, 2022.

Upon arrival, first responders found a rubbish fire, which had spread to adjacent areas of brush. According to department reports, difficult access and terrain necessitated the use of the department’s Air 1 helicopter.

Crews encountered hot and gusty trade winds blowing at 30 mph during their firefighting efforts.

The fire was extinguished by 5:17 p.m. No damages or injuries were reported and the cause of the fire is undetermined.

Crews responding to the scene included Engine 14, Engine 6, Wildland 10, Tanker 10, Air 1, and a Battalion Chief.