Governor Josh Green has signed an emergency proclamation authorizing Operation Hoʻopauahi, a statewide wildfire response initiative that keeps National Guard helicopters ready for immediate deployment during fire season. Multiple sources report this marks the second year of the program, which runs from June through November and aims to provide faster aerial firefighting support to county and state first responders.
- Operation Hoʻopauahi runs from June 1 through November 30, 2026, marking the second year of the program
- Three helicopters will be strategically positioned: a CH-47F Chinook and HH-60 Blackhawk on Oahu, plus an additional Blackhawk in Hilo
- The operation maintains a one-hour response time capability from any of three Army Aviation Support Facilities statewide
- In 2025, the program responded to four major fires, flying 105.4 hours and dropping 283,908 gallons of water
- Emergency proclamation provides funding for full flight operations, refueling and maintenance support during wildfire season
- National Guard can also activate evacuation teams, traffic control support and security missions under the proclamation
Sources
- Hawaii Department of Defense: Operation Hoʻopauahi | State of Hawaiʻi Department of Defense
- Maui Now: Governor signs emergency proclamation funding Operation Hoʻopauahi in preparation of wildfire season
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