Honolulu, HI — The National Weather Service in Honolulu has placed leeward portions of Niihau, Kauai, and Oahu under a Red Flag Warning through 6 PM HST Saturday, citing a hazardous mix of brisk winds and low humidity that can rapidly escalate wildfire behavior.
Meteorologists are tracking easterly winds of 15 to 25 mph, with peak gusts near 40 mph, alongside relative humidity dipping to around 43%. In these conditions, any spark can lead to fast-moving fires that are difficult for crews to contain.
On Oahu, the warning spans a broad swath of leeward terrain, including the Honolulu metro area, Ewa Plain, Waianae Coast, Central Oahu, and the North Shore. Niihau and southern to western sections of Kauai are also included.
While increased moisture has eased fire danger across Maui County and Hawaii Island, forecasters say critical fire weather will hold over the western islands into the evening. Authorities urge residents to avoid outdoor burning and postpone activities that could ignite dry grass or brush, such as using power tools, machinery, or open flames near parched vegetation.
For preparedness tips and wildfire safety information, visit the Hawaii Wildfire Management Organization at hawaiiwildfire.org.
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