Update: Olowalu fire 70% contained, high wind warning still in effect

A fast-moving brush fire, first reported just before 2 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 26, near Olowalu Village, was estimated at more than 100 acres and 70% contained as of 8 a.m. today. No structures have been reported as impacted.

Maui Fire Department continued response through the night into the morning, resources on scene include a Lahaina engine, mini-pumper and tanker; a Nāpili mini-pumper; a Wailuku mini-pumper; and two emergency callback engine crew. Two helicopters are on standby, but strong winds are preventing aircraft from safely flying unless needed for an emergency. Ground crews continue firefighting efforts.

Two private dozers, two private tankers, two state Department of Land and Natural Resources Division of Forestry and Wildlife tankers and three Type 3 DOFAW engines are also assisting with firefighting efforts. 

Evacuation orders: An evacuation order was issued at 2:39 p.m. yesterday for Olowalu Village from Luawai Street to Ehehene Street, with emergency sirens sounded at approximately 2:40 p.m. The evacuation order remains in effect. Residents were directed to leave immediately, evacuate away from the fire area and follow directions from emergency officials. Residents are asked not to return to the affected area until authorities lift the evacuation order.

Shelters / Evacuation points: The following locations are available for residents affected:

• West Maui: Emergency shelter at Lahaina Civic Center Gym, 1840 Honoapiʻilani Highway.
• South Maui: Temporary evacuation point at South Maui Community Park and Gym, 1501 Liloa Drive, Kīhei.

The emergency shelter provides a safe place for residents displaced by the brush fire and offers basic amenities, including charging stations for personal electronic devices. Residents should bring their own bedding, food, drinking water, medications, charging cables and other essential items. Pets are allowed but must be in crates.

The temporary evacuation point, or TEP, provides a safe gathering place for residents who need to evacuate and includes charging stations for personal electronic devices, but does not have the supplies or other amenities available at an emergency shelter. Those going to the TEP should bring their own bedding, food, drinking water, medications, charging cables and other essential supplies.

Operations at both locations will depend on fire conditions and community impacts and will be assessed as conditions evolve.

Traffic: As of 10:30 p.m. yesterday, both lanes of Honoapiʻilani Highway reopened and remain open. Motorists are advised to use caution when traveling through the affected area.

Weather: The National Weather Service at 5:04 p.m. Saturday issued a High Wind Warning, which remains in effect for portions of Maui County until 6 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 27. 

Maui Emergency Management Agency is in full activation. Sign up for Genasys Protect and MEMA alerts at www.mauicounty.gov/MEMA and follow County of Maui and MEMA on Facebook and Instagram.

*Maui Now’s Wendy Osher contributed to this report.