2:30 p.m., 7/19, Update: Voluntary evacuation recommended

Published on July 19, 2024

KOKE‘E – Kaua‘i Emergency Management Agency (KEMA) is recommending a voluntary evacuation for the Koke‘e and Waimea Canyon State Park areas. There is no immediate fire threat to the area, however, extended road closures could result in isolation. Those unable to shelter in place are urged to leave the area immediately and will be allowed to exit through Koke‘e Road.

There are no residential homes in this area. As such, no shelters are available at this time.

Multiple ground and air assets continue to fight the Koke‘e fire that broke out Thursday evening. No injuries have been reported and there is no current threat to structures.

The Kaua‘i Emergency Operations Center (EOC) remains partially activated and reports the following updates:

KIUC: At the request of the Kaua‘i Emergency Management Agency and for the safety of all emergency response crews fighting this wildfire, KIUC has de-energized the Koke‘e circuit. There is no estimated timeframe at this point for re-energizing that circuit. Approximately 116 members are affected. KIUC continues to monitor its infrastructure in the area and reports no damage at this time.

ROAD CLOSURES: In order to accommodate first responders, Waimea Canyon Drive remains closed from Panini Place to the Waimea Canyon Drive and Koke‘e Road junction. Residents on Panini Place will not be affected by the closure. Koke‘e Road remains closed from Kekaha Road to Waimea Canyon Drive, and is expected to remain closed for the duration of this incident. However, those evacuating Koke‘e or Waimea Canyon Drive will be allowed to exit through Koke‘e Road.  

KPD DISPATCH: Kaua‘i Police Dispatch advises the community not to call 9-1-1 for updates. Only call for EMERGENCIES.

Responding agencies include the Kaua‘i Fire Department, Hawai‘i Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) - Division of Conservation and Resources Enforcement (DOCARE) and Division of Forestry and Wildlife (DOFAW), Kaua‘i Police Department, Department of Public Works, Pacific Missile Range Facility (PMRF), Līhu‘e Airport - Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting (ARFF), Agribusiness Development Corporation (ADC), Kekaha Agriculture Association, Waalani Enterprises, Kaua‘i Emergency Management Agency, Hawai‘i Emergency Management Agency, Hawai‘i Department of Transportation (DOT) Highways Division, Hawai‘i National Guard, Airborne Aviation, and other private contractors.

Updates will be posted as information becomes available.

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