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Firefighters continue to battle Maui brush fire that prompted hotel evacuation

A large brush fire that scorched approximately 200 acres of brush on Maui is 60 percent contained, according to a Maui County spokesman.

Firefighters are continuing to battle the fire that broke out near 4050 Kala Waa St. in Wailea at approximately 6:40 p.m. Sunday. The fast-moving fire prompted an evacuation of guests and staff at the Hotel Wailea.

Ten units including two water tankers responded to the fire. Firefighters created a perimeter as they battled the brush fire throughout the night. Bulldozers were also used to cut firebreaks.

An evacuation center opened at Kihei Community Center Sunday night where more than 30 people, mostly visitors, sought shelter.

Maui County spokesman Brian Perry said strong winds that fanned the brush fire subsided at approximately 2 a.m.

Soon afterward, residents of Wailea Villas returned to their homes and a majority of the evacuees at the shelter left the site.

Perry said the evacuation center is now closed.

No injuries or property damage were reported as of 8:45 a.m. today.

The Maui Fire Department’s Air 1 helicopter is conducting water drops this morning to flames in areas that continue to burn.

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