Yesterday, Mayor Alameda signed an Emergency Proclamation that bans outdoor burning and open flames in parts of Hawaiʻi Island to reduce the risk of wildfire.

Due to critical fire weather conditions, the National Weather Service issued a Red Flag Warning in effect until 6 p.m. Saturday for South, Southeast, North-Kohala, and interior areas of Hawaiʻi Island This includes all or parts of the following districts: Hāmākua, North Hilo, North and South Kohala, North Kona, Kaʻū and Puna.

As a result of the Emergency Proclamation, the following actions are prohibited in areas covered by the Red Flag Warning:

• All outdoor burning.
• All outdoor open flames.
• All “hot work,” which includes but is not limited to grinding, welding, flame cutting, or other fire or spark-producing operations.

Violations are punishable with a fine up to $1,000 per violation pursuant to HRS § 127A-29(a).

Additionally, residents are advised to avoid parking on dry vegetation as heat from vehicle exhaust systems can ignite dry grass.