Kahikinui fire update as of 7 p.m. 6-15-25

FIRE UPDATE

The Kahikinui brush fire mauka of the highway near Mile Marker 24 and 25 is now estimated at approximately 500 acres as of 7 p.m. today, June 15, 2025, due to improved mapping, according to County of Maui Department of Fire and Public Safety (MFD). Containment percentage has not yet been determined. No injuries or structural damages have been reported. This will be the last general update for June 15, barring emergencies, and more information will be provided tomorrow.

Mayor Richard Bissen signed an Emergency Proclamation at 5:45 p.m. 6/15 in response to the ongoing fire, which authorizes the County to access federal assistance programs for individuals and public infrastructure, including funds for emergency response efforts to ensure continued and effective countywide response.

SHELTER

American Red Cross opened a shelter at 5:30 p.m. at King Kekaulike High School gymnasium. Enter via Haleakala Highway. Bring chairs, go bags and other necessities. Snacks and water will be provided.

EVACUATION ORDERS

Evacuation orders were issued by Maui Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) for Kahikinui homes near Mile Marker 24 and 25 due to the fast-moving brush fire, fueled by strong winds. There are approximately 105 Kahikinui homestead lots in the area. Maui Police Department and MFD conducted door-to-door evacuations. Also, evacuation orders were sent around 11 a.m. through the new Genasys Protect app and MEMA alerts and later with an island-wide Wireless Emergency Alert (WEA).

RESPONSE

MFD resources, along with private contractors, will remain overnight to continue firefighting efforts. During the day, six MFD engine companies, three minis, four air assets, two tankers and emergency callback personnel, along with resources from County Department of Public Works, state and private contractors, were battling the blaze in challenging terrain.

CLOSURES

Road closure on Pi'ilani Highway from Mile Marker 20 to 41.

BACKGROUND

MFD reported the Kahikinui brush fire at 9:54 a.m. 6/15. The brush fire was originally a quarter acre and increased to around 20 acres by 10:30 a.m. MEMA's Emergency Operations Center was partially activated midday in response to the fire. A temporary evacuation point at Grandma's Coffee house was open midday until 4:30 p.m.

INFO

Sign up for Genasys Protect and MEMA Alerts at www.mauicounty.gov/MEMA and follow County of Maui and MEMA on Facebook and Instagram.