The Power Line wildfire on the southeast flank of Mauna Loa in Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park is 100% contained and is holding at 42.5 acres in size.

Mauna Loa Road remains closed to all public use, and only authorized vehicles are allowed past the gate at Kīpukapuaulu until further notice. Firefighters are working to reduce nearly two miles of hose lay around the fire, and the presence of fire personnel, heavy equipment and vehicles on the road requires its continued temporary closure. Utility crews are conducting inspections and performing tree trimming in the fire area.

Crews are also working to mop up smoldering patches in the interior of the fire. Hotter, windier weather caused flare ups in grass near the center of the fire. Firefighters did not get much help from Tropical Storm Darby over the weekend, with less than half an inch of rain  on the fire Saturday, and no precipitation since, but are working hard towards full suppression.

The Power Line fire, which was first reported on the evening of Monday, July 11, started near a power line road at around 4,800-ft. elevation in the park. The cause of the fire is under investigation.
No homes or other structures were damaged. The burn has impacted habitat for native birds, and a 1,760-foot section of ungulate-proof fence that protects native forest was damaged. Park staff are evaluating needs and planning for rehabilitation.

(Photo credit: Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park)