Governor Josh Green of Hawaiʻi signed an emergency proclamation to activate the Hawaiʻi National Guard for the wildfire season. This allows Brig. Gen. Stephen F. Logan to launch Operation Hoʻopauahi, aiming to quickly combat emerging fires with aerial support, specifically a CH-47F Chinook helicopter crew. Governor Green emphasized the proactive goal of preventing wildfires from escalating into disasters, aiming to save lives and protect property. Brig. Gen. Logan stated the operation also enables activation of other guard resources for safety and response efforts. The proclamation comes amid significant drought conditions across the state, with over half of Hawaiʻi facing moderate to severe drought.
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