Waikoloa Village conducts emergency evacuation practice on Saturday
Residents of Waikoloa Village are gearing up for the wildfire season, as they prepare for the final Hulu Street evacuation drill of the year on Saturday. The drill, known as Hulu Holoholo, allows residents to test the official evacuation route from the end of Hulu Street to Queen Ka'ahumanu Highway.
The evacuation route has undergone several safety improvements in recent years. Key curves have been smoothed out, and several sections have been newly paved and graded to reduce rough terrain. Stream crossings on the route have been reinforced to prevent vehicles from spinning out, ensuring a safer journey for all.
These improvements were put to the test during the first drill of 2025, which received positive feedback, according to Talmadge Magno, Civil Defense administrator. The drill, held twice a year since 2024, aims to reach both full-time residents and part-time and seasonal residents during the peak fire season in summer and again in winter.
The Hulu Street evacuation route is a critical lifeline for the community, and residents are urged to get familiar with it. A video of the route can be viewed at tinyurl.com/huluholoholo.
Despite these improvements, the route remains on county-owned private property and requires permission for use. County officials meet with community members at both ends of the route to gather input.
Waikoloa Village, which always faces a high fire risk, could see extreme fire behavior this season due to gusty trade winds, low humidity, and extra vegetation from this year's rainfall. Mayor Kimo Alameda stated that practicing emergency plans before disaster strikes is important.
While a future option for an alternate road could be considered, located behind the subdivision to the north, adjacent to the village, it would require approval from homeowners and funding. For now, residents are encouraged to focus on familiarizing themselves with the current route.
As the wildfire season approaches, residents are reminded to stay vigilant and prepared. With the improved evacuation route and regular drills, Waikoloa Village is taking proactive steps to ensure the safety of its residents.
The community of Waikoloa Village has shown a keen interest in environmental science, as the safety improvements made to the Hulu Street evacuation route also serve as a practical example of education and self-development. Despite the challenging weather conditions this season, including gusty trade winds and low humidity, residents are encouraged to stay informed about scientific aspects of wildfires and environmental factors that may affect their area.
Although the county has considered alternative road options for the evacuation route, such as the one located behind the subdivision to the north, the focus at present is on familiarizing residents with the current route. This education and self-development opportunity also gives residents a clear understanding of the importance of the Hulu Street evacuation route and its role as a critical lifeline within the community.
