HONOLULU (KHON2) -- Governor Josh Green, M.D., has declared June as Wildfire & Drought LOOKOUT! month in Hawai‘i as a means of emphasizing the importance of wildfire, drought and water conservation awareness.
This proclamation follows a comprehensive public information campaign to educate residents on these critical issues.
The annual media kickoff for the campaign took place this morning at Fire Station 14 on Maui. Now in its eighth year, the initiative aims to equip people with the knowledge and tools to prepare for and respond to the threats posed by wildfires and drought.
Developed by the Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) and the Hawai‘i Wildfire Management Organization (HWMO), Wildfire & Drought LOOKOUT! is a collaborative effort involving all state and county firefighting agencies, along with members of the Hawai‘i Drought Council.
Elizabeth Pickett, HWMO Co-Executive Director, highlighted the connection between wildfire and water conservation.
“It is a natural fit for water conservation messaging to be included in our wildfire and drought awareness efforts, as water conservation is an important factor when we face drought conditions,” said Pickett.
The U.S. Drought Monitor reported severe drought conditions earlier this year, which have now improved, with only parts of Hawai‘i Island and Maui experiencing "abnormally dry to moderate drought conditions."
National Weather Service Forecaster Derek Wroe warned that dryer conditions are expected in the coming months, likely leading to a resurgence of drought across all islands. As vegetation dries out, the risk of wildfires increases.
Maui Fire Assistant Chief Jeffrey Giesea noted that wildfires can occur on any of the inhabited Hawaiian Islands and emphasized the importance of proactive actions to prevent and mitigate wildfire risks.
Mike Walker, state protection forester with the DLNR Division of Forestry and Wildlife (DOFAW), explained that recent precipitation has delayed the dry season but has also added fuel to the landscape, increasing fire danger later in the summer.
Maui's Department of Water Supply (DWS) reported moderate to severe drought conditions in South Maui, with declining reservoir levels in Upcountry areas. DWS Deputy Director James “Kimo” Landgraf mentioned ongoing Stage 1 water shortages in West Maui and Upcountry.
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The Wildfire & Drought LOOKOUT! campaign includes contributions from numerous agencies and organizations, offering tips and materials on wildfire readiness, safety, and water conservation. The campaign's web page provides access to information, graphics, and videos for media, partners, and the public.