Evacuations underway for Maui brush fire driven by strong winds

FILE VIDEO: Air Maui Helicopters Director of Operations Richard Olsten flew over Lahaina for the first time after the deadly wildfires killed more than 100 people one year ago. When the wildfires started, Olsten’s aerial images were some of the first to show the devastating fires burning. 

MAUI COUNTY, Hawaii – Evacuations were ordered for the homestead of Kahikinui on Maui on Sunday after a wind-driven brush fire quickly spread. 

Maui County Fire Department said the fire sparked around 10 a.m. in the Kahikinui area around Mile Marker 24 and 25.

A brush fire burning on Maui on Sunday, June 15, 2025 leading to evacuations.

(Maui County Emergency management)

“The fire is currently moving up the mountain, pushed by strong winds,” the Maui County Fire Department said on X.

The Kahikinui brush fire is estimated to be about 20 acres and uncontrolled.

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About an hour after the fire started, Maui County Emergency Management issued an emergency evacuation order for mile marker 24 in Kahikinui.

The Maui Police Department closed the road leading from Hana towards Ulapalakua through the fire area for the safety of the public and responders, according to Maui County fire. 

The American Red Cross set up a temporary evacuation point at Grandma’s Coffee House in Ulupalakua.

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