Pukalani fire updates: Evacuation order lifted; fire 100% contained at under 2 acres

Update: Aug. 8, 2024

Fire crews returned to the scene of the Pukalani fire at first light this morning to resume mop-up operations. Fire officials say the cause of yesterdayʻs fire is undetermined, but is not believed to have been intentional. The blaze burned 1.5 acres according to updated estimates.

Fire declared 100% contained: 6:05 p.m., Aug. 7, 2024

The Maui Fire Department reports that the Pukalani fire was 100% contained at about two acres as of approximately 5:45 p.m.

The department’s Engine 5 remains on scene as crews continue to mop up this evening. Earlier in the day, MFD had three engines, one wildland engine, one tanker and two aircraft, along with one Alpha Inc. tanker, fighting the fire.

Evacuation LIFTED For Akalani Loop And Kalialani Circle: 5:50 p.m, Aug. 7, 2024

Evacuations have been lifted for residents of Akalani Loop and Kalialani Circle as of 5:45 p.m. on Wednesday, Aug. 7, 2024.

The Maui Fire Department has lifted the evacuations and is allowing impacted residents to return to their homes.

Maui Fire Department crews are still in the area conducting mop up operations. For the safety of first responder personnel, the public is asked to use caution while driving in the area.

The Maui Emergency Management Agency continues to monitor the situation.

Pukalani fire update: 5:15 p.m.; 5 p.m.; 4:50 p.m.; 4:45 p.m,; 4 p.m., Aug. 7, 2024

The County of Maui Department of Fire and Public Safety conducted localized, door-to-door evacuations for homes off Akalani Loop and Kalialani Circle at 3:20 p.m. Evacuees were directed to Hannibal Tavares Community Center in Pukalani.

Maui Emergency Management Agency sent an informational alert at 3:28 p.m. today to advise Pukalani residents near Palalani Street to stay vigilant and avoid the area if possible.

MFD reported a brush fire at 2:55 p.m. in a gulch off Palalani Street in Pukalani today, Aug. 7. No injuries or structural damages have been reported due to the fire. No acreage or containment estimates are available at this time, according to MFD.

MFD has three engines, one wildland engine, one tanker and two aircraft, along with one Alpha Inc. tanker, on the scene.

MEMA’s Emergency Operations Center was partially activated at 2:55 p.m. in response to the fire. 

At around 2:45 p.m., Hawaiian Electric on Maui reported that a power outage occurred in Pukalani affecting an estimated 2,518 customers. Crews are investigating. At 4:45 p.m., all impacted customers remained without power. At 4:50 p.m., an update was posted that power has been restored to all impacted customers in Kula, Olinda and Makawao. At 5 p.m., the utility clarified that the 2,518 customers impacted in Pukalani, remain without power.

At 5:15 p.m., the state Department of Transportation reported that the power outage is impacting traffic signals along Haleakalā Highway. Motorists are advised to drive with caution.

Find mental health support due to stress, anxiety and trauma from the wildfires at www.mauirecovers.org or by calling the Hawai‘i Support Line at 808-446-6676.

Previous post: 3:25 p.m., Aug. 7, 2 2024

Maui fire crews are responding to a brush fire in the area near 2740 Palalani Street.

The Maui Emergency Management Agency reported a potential for localized evacuation of homes in the area and advised residents to stay vigilant and avoid the area if possible.

Monitor radio, TV, and mobile devices for official information. Prepare yourself and your family to evacuate if notified by County officials.

Maui Emergency Management Agency continues to monitor the situation and will provide additional information as it becomes available.