Brushfires in upcountry Maui have damaged homes and prompted evacuations.
The winds are gusty and possibly fanning the flames.
The areas affected are three homes off Hapapa Road, one of which sustained roof damage.
Residents on Hapapa Road with house numbers above 156 have been evacuated.
Fire crews from Kula, Makawao, Kahului and Kihei are on the scene battling this fire.
Meantime, Makawao Forest Reserve is closed due to an ongoing forest fire.
The fire is 40 percent contained at approximately 4 acres amid eucalyptus and non-native shrubs. Maui Fire Department crews first responded to the fire with help of two helicopters doing water drops. DLNR Division of Forestry and Wildlife (DOFAW) firefighters took on the ground fighting tasks this morning with 12 field personnel.
Weather conditions are cloudy with high humidity.
"Due to the high winds and risk of danger from falling trees and branches, the Kula State Forest Reserve, including Polipoli Spring State Park, has been temporarily closed for public safety. We ask the public to be cautious and avoid these areas while risks exist," said William J. Aila, Jr., DLNR Chairperson.
State Forestry personnel were called out Sunday evening to remove fallen trees from the forest road to Polipoli Spring State Park so stranded persons could leave.
DLNR Division of Conservation and Resources Enforcement (DOCARE) officers were on scene Monday morning to evacuate 10 individuals who were camping at the state park or in other areas, out via the Skyline Road via Haleakala National Park.
They also close the gate to the Park/Forest Reserve on Waipouli Road. Closure sign is posted at Waipoli Road gate and at Skyline Road gate.
It will remain closed until the high wind event subsides and the road is clear.
See the original article at: KHON2 Local News
