Summary:
- Communities in West Oahu express concern over fire risk following the devastation caused by Moway fires and Lahaina fires.
- Residents highlight neglected areas prone to fires and potential risks to life and property.
- Past incidents of wildfires in the region, like the 2018 Macaha fire, emphasize the need for preventive actions.
- Honolulu City Council member Andrea Topola calls for private landowners to take responsibility for fire prevention.
- Efforts by individuals like Macaha farmer Bullah to create fire breaks are noted, but a collective approach is urged.
- Upcoming wildfire prevention meeting scheduled, aiming to address community concerns and preparedness.
Moway fires erased an entire town. Many West Oahu residents worry their community could be next. Eddie Dowd reports on the wake-up call for landowners.
This land was once home to the Sheraton Macaha Valley Resort torn down in 2014. Residents we talked to say it's just one example of places on the West side that have been neglected and prone to fire. So when you look at this, what do you see? I see neglect. I see a fire waiting to happen.
And I see possible loss of life and death again. That's what I see. I see Lahaina. It's a real concern for Leeward residents who have seen wildfires rip through their communities over the years. In 2018, a brush fire blazed through several valleys on the West side, including Macaha, burning nearly 9,000 acres, destroying farms and taking days to put out. Just this month, another fire sprang up in Waianae. But unlike the Lahaina fires, the wind did not play a factor and crews were able to put it out within hours. But some say they won't always be that lucky. Honolulu City Council member Andrea Topola is urging private landowners to be vigilant and take steps to protect their homes. Macaha farmer who goes by Bullah has already started the work, using goats to create a fire break to remove brush that could act as fuel for the fire. But some say he's one of the few taking action and that needs to change. And this Thursday, there will be a wildfire prevention meeting at Nanakuli Library from five to six. The public is welcome to join. Reporting on Oahu's West Side, Eddie Dowd, Hawaii News Now.
Maui is a wake-up call. It's a horrible wake-up call for all of us. And Macaha is a prime area for fires. And we have one way in, one way out.