Hawaiʻi County officials are reporting that significant progress has been made on the Akoni Pule Highway fire in the Kohala.

As a result, residents of Kohala By the Sea, Kohala Waterfront, and Kohala Estates are able to return home. Additionally, access to the northern portion of Kohala Ranch is accessible to Kamakani Street via the Kohala Mountain Road. Akoni Pule Highway remains closed between the 6 and 17-mile markers.

Newly reported flare-ups near the Mauna Kea and Hapuna Beach areas continue to burn. An additional flare-up has also been reported in the same area, just upland of the golf course. North Fairways at Mauna Kea and the Villas at Mauna Kea have been evacuated. Guests at the Mauna Kea Resort have been asked to shelter in place. Emergency Medical Services are on-site to monitor the situation and provide medical services if needed.

Queen Kaʻahumanu Highway is closed between the 69-mile marker and the Kawaihae Road Junction.

Hawaiʻi Fire Department (HFD) crews are on the scene and working to contain the fires. Further evacuations may be necessary. Individuals in and around the area should remain on high alert.

Shelters remain open at Hisaoka Park in Kapaʻau and Waimea Community Center in Kamuela. Additional shelters may be opened based on need.

The Lalamilo fire in Waimea has been contained.

The public is also encouraged to visit the official County of Hawaiʻi Hazard Map at https://tinyurl.com/3edh6xfn.

AP Photo