Kīhei brush fire: Preliminary investigation points to possible intentional ignition; crews monitor hot spots

Maui Fire Department officials say there are preliminary indications that Saturday’s brush fire in Kīhei was intentionally set. While there is preliminary indications of possible intentional ignition, the cause of the fire is currently considered undetermined and remains under investigation.

The fire was first reported at around 5:51 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 7, 2026, in the area of Liloa Hema Drive between Alanui Ke’ali’i and Keonekai Road.

The fire burned an estimated 2 acres of brush in a vacant lot between Liloa Hema Drive and condos along South Kīhei Rd. Crews attacked the blaze in a mix of grass and kiawe trees and were able to bring the fire under control shortly before 7 p.m. Firefighters declared the blaze 100% contained by 10:27 p.m. Full extinguishment is still pending.

Firefighters continue to monitor the area and address hot spots as they are located.

Responding units included Engine 14, Ladder 14, Tanker 14, Engine 6, Engine 10, Tanker 10, Tanker 50, a battalion chief, and a fire investigator.

No one was displaced and no evacuations were reported. There were no injuries or damages, according to fire officials. Liloa Hema Drive was closed for a period of time to allow firefighters to work safely along the road.

Crews battled the fire amid light trade winds, which were blowing at approximately 5 mph.