Karin Stanton | Hawaii 24/7 Editor
Fire crews were battling a brushfire into the early hours of Friday, Aug. 12 along the lower part of Kaiminani Drive in Kona.
Authorities evacuated some residents and opened Kekuaokalani Gym in Kona as a shelter by about midnight.
Residents said they heard the first firetrucks shortly after 9 p.m. and watched as the fire seemed to spread south across brushland just below Kakahiaka Street.
One bystander was in contact with a friend, who reported flames were within 20 feet of the road and getting closer.
Officials said the fire was estimated at 5 acres and a bulldozer would work through the night to cut a fire break around the blaze and protect apartments and houses.
Kaiminani Drive remains closed to all traffic.
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UPDATED: 3:45 a.m. Friday, Aug. 12
Fire officials are tentatively saying the brushfire is contained.
No injuries have been reported and no structures have been damaged.
Crews remain on the scene.
Kaiminani Drive remains closed at 4 a.m. However, officials are hoping to have it open in time for the morning commute.
UPDATED: 4:30 a.m. Friday, Aug. 12
Kaiminani Drive has been opened to traffic but motorists should use caution due to fire vehicles in the area.
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