Wailea Fire 100% Contained

A brush fire that blackened 200 acres and triggered an evacuation of Wailea hotel guests and residents is now 100% contained, Maui Mayor Michael Victorino said.

Photos: County of Maui/Chris Sugidono

Maui Fire Department crews continued to monitor and douse hotspots on Tuesday, but there are no reports of injuries or property damage. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.

“I’m grateful for all the hard work and dedication of Maui firefighters, police and first responders,” said Mayor Victorino who inspected the scene on Monday.

The fire was first reported at 6:42 p.m. on Sunday, Jan. 6, 2019 near 4050 Kalai Waʻa Street in Wailea. A total of 30 individuals sought shelter at the Kīhei Community Center during the height of the fire response.

Firefighting efforts were hampered by swirling winds of 15 to 20 mph during the initial hours, before winds died down at around 2 a.m. Monday.  Crews worked to establish firebreaks before the department’s Air One helicopter was deployed at daybreak on Monday to conduct water drops.

County of Maui / Chris Sugidono photo 1.6.19 Wailea Fire.