Highway closed as Big Isle firefighters continue to battle brush fire

Highway 190 between Makalei Street, which is north of Kaiminani Drive, and the Daniel K. Inouye Highway on the Big Island remains closed as fire crews continue to fight a brush fire that has scorched 1,800 acres.

The brush fire was reported at 11:44 a.m. Wednesday along Highway 190 between the mile markers 23 and 25 on the makai side of the road.

Fire officials said that firefighters are using water drops from two county helicopters since the area is not accessible by vehicle.

The road is expected to be closed until at least noon today, Hawaii County police said. Motorists are asked to take alternate routes and to avoid the area.