LIHUE, Hawaii — As Maui and Hawaii Island continue to battle multiple wildfires, the Kauai Fire Department reminds Kauai residents and visitors of the Red Flag Warning and Wind Advisory that have been extended by the National Weather Service until 6 a.m. Thursday. They also urge everyone to remain vigilant of fires.
“As we continue to pray for our brothers and sisters on Maui, we urge residents and visitors to remain vigilant and be prepared as the Red Flag Warning and Wind Advisory remains in effect through this evening,” said Kauai Fire Department Chief Michael Gibson in the release.
“Any fire that develops during a Red Flag Warning can spread rapidly,” Gibson warned.
The Kauai Fire Department advises the public to adhere to the following to prevent fires:
- Refrain from all outdoor burning, including cooking
- Avoid using mechanized equipment outdoors, including yardwork equipment
- Be aware of wind direction and gusts that could spread fire rapidly
- Have an escape route to a clear area safe from rapidly spreading wildfires
- Report any possible fires — including signs of smoke or flames — to Kauai Police Department Dispatch at 808-241-1711
“The County of Kauai and the Kauai Emergency Management Agency are in contact with Maui officials and are preparing to deploy resources as needed,” said Kauai Emergency Management Agency Administrator Elton Ushio.
According to the National Weather Service, a Red Flag Warning means critical fire weather conditions are occurring or will occur as the combination of dry fuels, strong and gusty winds, and low relative humidity levels set the stage for the possibility of extreme fire behavior. A Red Flag Warning does not predict new fire starts.
A Wind Advisory means strong winds are occurring that could tear off shingles, knock down tree branches, blow away tents and awnings and make it difficult to steer a vehicle, especially high-profile vehicles.
Warnings and advisories may be modified as conditions develop.
The public can call the National Weather Service automated weather line at 808-245-6001 or visit the NWS website for updates.
Sign up for Kauai County’s emergency notification service — Wireless Emergency Notification System — at the county website or by calling the Kauai Emergency Management Agency at 808-241-1800.
Fire safety information is available by calling the Fire Prevention Bureau at 808-241-4985.
Maui County fire updates can be found on the Maui County website, Facebook page and on Instagram.
Hawaii County fire updates can be found on the Hawaii County website, Mayor Mitch Roth’s Facebook page and on Instagram.