NAWILIWILI — A fire crew from the Lihue Fire Station responded to an ironwood tree, which was smoldering at Kalapaki Beach Friday afternoon. Reports of the smoldering tree were called in shortly after 2 p.m. from the vicinity of Pine
NAWILIWILI — A fire crew from the Lihue Fire Station responded to an ironwood tree, which was smoldering at Kalapaki Beach Friday afternoon.
Reports of the smoldering tree were called in shortly after 2 p.m. from the vicinity of Pine Tree Inn. The area was more crowded more than usual due to the Admission Day holiday and the sunny weather.
There were no reported injuries due to the afternoon incident.
Weather conditions prompted the National Weather Service to issue a red flag warning, which remained in effect through Friday evening due to dry conditions, low humidity and strong trade winds.
A red flag warning means that critical fire weather conditions are either occurring or will shortly, states the NWS.
A combination of strong winds, low relative humidity and warm temperatures can contribute to extreme fire behavior. The red flag warning does not predict new fire starts.
• Dennis Fujimoto, staff writer and photographer, can be reached at 245-0453 or dfujimoto@thegardenisland.com.