Fast-moving brush fire forces evacuations, damages homes and injures five in Maili, Oʻahu, Hawaii
A fast-moving brush fire burned 38 ha (95 acres), injured five, and damaged at least two homes in Māili, O‘ahu, Hawaii, on July 6, 2025. Mandatory evacuations were ordered, with fire crews reporting 75 % containment by 19:30 local time (LT).
Region of the brush fire in Māili, O‘ahu, Hawaii, on July 6, 2025. Credit: Veoci
A fast-moving brush fire broke out in Māili, O‘ahu, around 14:30 LT on July 6, 2025, burning approximately 38 ha (95 acres) of land.
The Honolulu Fire Department (HFD) responded with 27 units, including two helicopters, to combat the fire. Aerial suppression was halted after sunset, with ground units continuing containment efforts into the evening.
According to HFD, the fire was 75% contained by 19:30 LT on July 6.
Mandatory evacuation orders were issued for residents living mauka (mountain-side) of Kulaaupuni Road. The City and County of Honolulu opened a shelter at Waianae Intermediate School, which accommodated displaced residents and their pets. While evacuation orders were lifted by late evening, officials urged residents to remain cautious and avoid returning until the area was declared safe.
The fire damaged at least two residential structures and injured 5 people. Emergency Medical Services reported treating a 94-year-old woman for smoke inhalation and second-degree burns. She was transported to hospital in critical condition. Four other individuals were evaluated for smoke-related symptoms at the scene.
HFD stated that the cause of the fire remains under investigation.
Separate smaller brush fires were reported on O‘ahu near Kunia Village, burning about 2 ha (5 acres), and on Maui near South Kamehameha Avenue, where prompt firefighting efforts contained and extinguished the fire within two hours. No evacuations or significant damage were reported on Maui.
#BREAKING
— Brian’s Breaking News and Intel (@intelFromBrian) July 7, 2025
forest fire in Hawaii… pic.twitter.com/qW8lMpIdjP
BREAKING: HAWAII IS BURNING: MANDATORY EVACUATIONS UNDERWAY ON OAHU
— HustleBitch (@HustleBitch_) July 7, 2025
A fast-moving brush fire in Mā‘ili has forced evacuations for neighborhoods on the mountain side of Kulaaupuni Street.
Fire crews are on the ground.
If you're in the area, get out now.
This is an… pic.twitter.com/4rZDsqqm1H
Hawaiian Electric initiated a Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) protocol in Upcountry Maui, affecting 330 customers as a preventive measure against wildfire ignition due to high winds and dry conditions. The outage was expected to continue until wind conditions improved and crews could safely inspect and re-energize affected lines.
References:
1 Maili brush fire burns 95 acres, 75% contained – Hawaii News Now – July 7, 2025
2 Māʻili wildfire prompts mandatory evacuation order in West Oʻahu – Hawaii Public Radio – July 6, 2025
Reet is a science journalist and researcher with a keen focus on extreme weather, space phenomena, and climate-related issues. With a strong foundation in astronomy and a history of environmental activism, she approaches every story with a sharp scientific lens and a deep sense of purpose. Driven by a lifelong love for writing, and a curiosity about the universe, Reet brings urgency and insight to some of the most important scientific developments of our time.
Commenting rules and guidelines
We value the thoughts and opinions of our readers and welcome healthy discussions on our website. In order to maintain a respectful and positive community, we ask that all commenters follow these rules.