Moloka’i fire crews have sweated out the worst – so far – of the third fire on the Friendly Isle over the past two days. Maui Fire Department spokesman Lee Mainaga says the fire near Kaunakakai is considered 100 percent contained as of 6 p.m. However, he made it very clear the fire is not under control. 

The fire got within 50 feet from homes in Kalamaula Mauka, just west of Kaunakakai, but no damage reported. A multi-island team of 28 fire personnel from Moloka’i with five from Lahaina, employing two county tankers, and one county loader are also assisting with four personnel.

A large area (approximate area done from air recon – 130 acres) will have to be mopped up. Crews officially designated as E-4, E-9, E-12 ,T-4, and County tankers will remain on scene to monitor and continue mop up operations throughout the night.