Wildfire — Kohala, Hawaii

2023-08-08 to 2023-08-09 · Kohala, Hawaii

Event narrative

A brushfire near Waimea burned 1,000 acres and threatened the Kohala Range subdivision. Firefighters from several agencies battled the blaze and kept it from destroying any homes. A few homes were damaged but no cost estimate was available. There were no reports of injuries or fatalities.

Wider weather episode

On August 8, several wildfires ignited over Maui and the Big Island. Very strong trade winds, low relative humidity, and ongoing drought conditions across leeward sections led to rapid fire growth and spread. The fires prompted several mandatory evacuations and emergency proclamations. One wildfire destroyed the town of Lahaina, Maui, killing 102 people and injuring at least 32.

Source: NOAA Storm Events Database, event_id 1138814. Narrative written by the NWS forecast office that issued the report.