Hawaii Fires

Daily Wildfire Report for Hawaii - July 13, 2026

Overview

Hawaiʻi is currently entering its peak wildfire season, facing an elevated fire risk due to borderline abnormally dry conditions developing across parts of the state. The combination of drying vegetation, invasive grasses, and periodic strong winds has led to potentially risky situations for wildfires across the islands, particularly in leeward areas. The current National Preparedness Level is 4, indicating that national firefighting resources are heavily committed.

Current Situation

Fire Activity: Over the last 72 hours, firefighters have been actively battling a wildland fire on the Big Island. Emergency management personnel are maintaining a heightened state of readiness across the state, as the majority of wildfires in Hawaiʻi are caused by human activity and can spread rapidly under current conditions.

Key Fires:
Waikoloa Wildfire: Located south of Waikoloa Village in South Kohala on Hawaiʻi Island, this fire started on July 10, 2026, and has burned approximately 200 acres. It is currently 50% contained. The fire is being fueled by abundant dry vegetation and invasive grasses typical of the area's drying landscape. The blaze initially prompted the temporary evacuation of two buildings at the Lofts apartment complex, though that order was quickly rescinded as south-to-southwest winds blew the flames away from populated areas. Fortunately, no buildings or infrastructure have been destroyed. All roads in the area, including Waikoloa Road, have reopened, though crews remain on the scene to fight the fire and monitor for hazards.

Prescribed Burns and Land Management: The Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) and the Division of Forestry and Wildlife (DOFAW) are actively working to reduce wildfire risk and improve firefighter access. Operations include the routine removal of dry vegetation, invasive plant species (such as albizia and miconia), and accumulated fuels around state parks and small boat harbors. Additionally, the military continues to conduct pre-planned prescribed fires on training areas, such as Schofield Barracks West, to reduce fuel loads and safely manage unexploded ordnance.

Air Quality: While overall air quality across the islands remains generally stable, residents near active fire zones, such as the Waikoloa area, may experience localized smoke impacts.

Weather and Wind Warnings

Current Weather: The Waikoloa area on the Big Island is experiencing borderline abnormally dry conditions, according to the U.S. Drought Monitor. Hawaiʻi's drought index is steadily increasing, and daytime humidity levels are trending gradually downward.
Forecasted Weather: There are currently no Red Flag Warnings or Fire Weather Watches in effect for Hawaiʻi Island. However, emergency officials warn that conditions can change quickly. When increasing drought and low humidity combine with high winds, the wildfire risk can become severe with little notice.

Recommendations

Public Awareness: The Hawaiʻi Emergency Management Agency (HIEMA) urges residents to practice fire safety, especially in the wake of the Fourth of July holiday weekend. Residents are advised to eliminate risky fire behavior, such as parking vehicles on dry grass, using machinery that sparks during the heat of the day, or leaving outdoor cooking unattended.
Resource Allocation: Agencies are continuously training for increased fire risk and conducting fuel mitigation projects to clear high-risk areas. DOFAW is coordinating closely with the Hawaiʻi National Guard to support wildfire suppression operations as needed, enhancing the state's ability to rapidly mobilize personnel, aviation resources, and equipment.

Resources

For up-to-date emergency information, residents can visit:
National Interagency Fire Center (NIFC): www.nifc.gov/fire-information/nfn
Hawaiʻi Emergency Management Agency (HIEMA): dod.hawaii.gov/hiema
Hawaiʻi Wildfire Management Organization: hawaiiwildfire.org

Stay informed and prepared by monitoring these resources regularly.