UPDATE: A brush fire that broke out in a vacant lot in Lihu‘e caused a road closure and the evacuation of a major retailer this afternoon. The blaze began in a vacant lot behind Walmart shortly after 1:12 p.m. Under
UPDATE: A brush fire that broke out in a vacant lot in Lihu‘e caused a road closure and the evacuation of a major retailer this afternoon.
The blaze began in a vacant lot behind Walmart shortly after 1:12 p.m.
Under the direction of Battalion Chief 3, Engines and Trucks 2, 3 and 5 responded along with Rescue 3 aboard Air 1. Firefighters from the Lihu‘e Airport also assisted in controlling the blaze.
The fire was deemed contained at 2:15 p.m.
No injuries were reported in the roughly 10-acre fire, but officials report the flames came within approximately 100 feet of Walmart. As a safety precaution, police evacuated Walmart and shut down Ahukini Road, between Kapule and Kuhio highways, while firefighters worked to gain control of the blaze.
The roadway was reopened at around 2:45 p.m.
Walmart was reopened for business at around 3 p.m.
The cause of ignition remains under investigation at this time.
