Fire watch issued for leeward areas of Kaua‘i County

The National Weather Service has issued a Fire Weather Watch for the leeward areas of Kaua‘i County that goes into effect from Nov. 5 at 10 a.m. to Nov. 6 at 6 p.m. The Kaua‘i Fire Department urges the public to remain vigilant to prevent fires.

The Kaua‘i Fire Department is advising the following to prevent fires:

• Refrain from all outdoor burning, including cooking;
• Avoid the use of mechanized equipment outdoors, including the use of yardwork equipment;
• Do not drive your vehicle in dry, tall grass. The underside of your vehicle is hot and can easily ignite grasses from your exhaust muffler;
• Ensure trailer chains do not drag on the ground;
• Be aware of wind direction and gusts that could spread fire rapidly;
• Have an escape route to a clear area safe from rapid-fire spread; and
• Report any possible fires – including signs of smoke or flames – by calling Kaua‘i Police Department Dispatch at 808-241-1711.

A Fire Weather Watch means that critical fire weather conditions are forecast to occur. Listen for later forecasts and possible Red Flag Warnings.

According to the National Weather Service, dry fuels combined with strong trade winds and lowering humidity could produce critical fire conditions from Sunday through Monday afternoon.

Any fires that develop will likely spread rapidly. Again, all outdoor burning is not recommended.

The watch may be extended, dropped, or modified as conditions develop.

For weather updates, call the National Weather Service automated weather line at 808-245-6001, or visit the NWS website, www.weather.gov/hfo.

To sign up for the county’s emergency notification service, Wireless Emergency Notification System (WENS), go to the county’s website, www.kauai.gov, or call the Kaua‘i Emergency Management Agency at 808-241-1800.

For more information about fire safety, call contact the Fire Prevention Bureau at 808-241-4985.