Update: Red flag warning extended through today for portions of Kaua‘i, all of Ni‘ihau

Update at 8:35 a.m. Oct. 25, 2025: Forecasters with the National Weather Service in Honolulu have extended until 6 p.m. the red flag warning in effect for leeward Kaua’i and all of Ni‘ihau.

East winds are expected to continue blowing at a sustained 15 to 25 mph, with gusts of up to 40 mph, and relative humidity levels as low as 43%, which will combine to form critical fire conditions so that if any fires were to develop, they likely would spread rapidly.

A red flag warning means critical fire weather conditions are either happening or will shortly. A combination of strong winds, low relative humidity and warm temperatures can contribute to extreme fire behavior.

A red flag warning does nots predict new fire starts.

Visit the Hawai‘i Wildfire Management Organization website for actions you can take to protect life and property from wildfires.

Original post at 9:41 a.m. Oct. 23, 2025: The National Weather Service in Honolulu has issued a red flag warning for most areas across Kaua‘i and Ni‘ihau, as dry and windy conditions raise the risk of wildfires through Saturday evening.

Forecasters say strong trade winds and very low humidity are combining to create critical fire weather conditions — especially this afternoon and again late Friday and Saturday.

The warning replaces the earlier fire weather watch and will remain in effect from noon Thursday to 6 p.m. Saturday.

Winds are expected to increase through the weekend, with gusts reaching up to 50 miles per hour on Friday. Relative humidity could drop as low as 40%, drying vegetation and heightening the risk for fast-moving fires.

The National Weather Service cautions that any fires that develop will likely spread rapidly, urging residents to avoid outdoor burning and to report any signs of smoke or fire immediately.

Officials remind residents that a Red Flag Warning does not predict new fires, but signals conditions where even small sparks can lead to dangerous fire behavior.

Due to these conditions, the Hawaiʻi County Civil Defense Agency recommends avoiding activities involving open flames, such as grilling or campfires.

The agency also advises against parking vehicles on dry grass after an outing.

For weather updates, call the National Weather Service automated weather line at 808-245-6001 or visit the National Weather Service Honolulu forecast office website.

To sign up for the county’s Wireless Emergency Notification System, visit the county’s website or call the Kaua‘i Emergency Management Agency at 808-241-1800.

Contact the Kaua‘i Fire Department Fire Prevention Bureau at 808-241-4985 or click here for more information about fire safety.