Update: Red flag warning canceled on Ni‘ihau and Kaua‘i

5 p.m. update: The National Weather Service has canceled the red
flag warning issued for portions of Ni‘ihau and Kaua‘i.

Relative humidities have recovered to above 50% and winds are dropping below 20 miles per hour. The threat for elevated fire weather concerns is diminishing.

Original post: A red flag warning is issued for leeward areas of all Hawaiian Islands including Ni‘ihau and portions of Kaua‘i.

The warning is in effect from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. According to the National Weather Service in Honolulu, locally strong trade winds and low relative humidity will combine with dry fuels to bring critical fire weather conditions.

If necessary, Hawaiian Electric may implement its Public Safety Power Shutoff program to proactively shut off power in communities with high exposure to wildfire risk. Customers in these areas are urged to implement their emergency plans and prepare for the possibility of extended power outages.

Winds from the east are expected to be 20 to 30 mph with gusts up to 40 mph. The relative humidity is anticipated to be as low as 40 to 45%

This combination of strong winds, low relative humidity and dry fuels can contribute to extreme fire behavior. Any fires that develop will likely spread rapidly.

Outdoor burning is not recommended.

Heat from vehicle exhaust systems can ignite dry grass. Park cars in areas that are paved or where vegetation is trimmed and cleared.

High winds contribute to wildfire hazards. Delay activities that could throw off sparks until the wind dies down.