Statement from Mayor Kawakami, Fire Chief Gibson
Published on July 16, 2024
LĪHU‘E – Mayor Derek S.K. Kawakami and Kaua‘i Fire Department Chief Michael Gibson has issued the following statement on the Kaumakani-Hanapēpē fire response.
“This fire came dangerously close to residential neighborhoods and it was only because of the efforts of our first responders and partner agencies that we were successful in protecting life and property. Our island is blessed to have a team who care deeply about the safety and well-being of our people, including our state and county emergency personnel, first responders, community partners, and our partners at PMRF who are always willing to assist when we are in need,” said Mayor Derek S.K. Kawakami. “I am incredibly grateful for everyone’s collective efforts, the assistance of Acting Governor Sylvia Luke and her team, and reminded once again of the strength, generosity, and commitment of our close-knit community.”
“Words cannot express the gratitude of our firefighters and partners who worked quickly and diligently during this wildfire incident,” said Kaua‘i Fire Department Chief Michael Gibson. “Because of their quick action and tireless ongoing efforts, our community was kept safe and informed throughout this response.”
Mahalo to the following partners involved during the Kaumakani-Hanapēpē fire response:
- Lt. Governor Sylvia Luke and Office
- HIEMA – Hawai‘i Emergency Management Agency
- HING – Hawai‘i National Guard
- PMRF – Pacific Range Facility
- ARC – American Red Cross
- Gay & Robinson
- Jack Harter
- KIUC – Kaua‘i Island Utility Cooperative
- DLNR DOFAW – Division of Forestry and Wildlife
- DLNR DOCARE – Division of Conservation and Resources Enforcement
- HDOT – Department of Transportation, Highways
- KDHO – Kaua‘i District Health Office
- DOE – Department of Education
- Kaua‘i Humane Society
- Hawai‘i Food Bank
- Various community members and private contractors
- KFD – Kaua‘i Fire Department
- Air1 – Contracted by KFD
- Air2 – Contracted by KFD
- KPD – Kaua‘i Police Department
- KEMA – Kaua‘i Emergency Management Agency
- DPW – Department of Public Works
- DOPR – Department of Parks and Recreation
- DOW – Department of Water
- Transportation Agency Kauai Bus
At approximately 12:15 p.m. on Tuesday, July 16, Kaua‘i Fire Department crews were dispatched to a brush fire reported off Kapa‘a Bypass Road. Kaua‘i Police have since closed the entire Kapa‘a Bypass Road at both north and south entrances of Kuhio Highway. Additionally, Olohena Road, between the Kaapuni Road junction and the Kapa‘a Bypass Road roundabout, is also currently closed. Firefighters remain on scene at this time. Updates will be announced as more information becomes available.
*Photos below are of the Kaumakani-Hanapēpē area.
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