KONA, Hawaii – Another runaway brush fire in West Hawaii has closed Highway 190 and traffic is being detoured.

The Hawaii County Fire Department reports the blaze in the area of the 24 mile mark of Highway 190. Civil defense says this is north of Kailua-Kona in the Puuanahulu area and all fire activity is on the west or makai side of the highway. No homes or properties are threatened however due to heavy smoke and fire conditions Highway 190 is closed to all traffic and detours have been set up at the following locations:

· Highway 190 and Kaiminani Drive on the south or Kona side
· Highway 190 and the Daniel K Inouye Highway on the North or Waimea side
· Highway 190 and Waikoloa Road on the north or Waimea side

Motorists are advised to avoid the area and to use alternate routes if possible. Civil defense says emergency crews are on scene and working to contain the fire. It is unknown at the time when the highway may be reopened. We will have more information as it becomes available.