13-07-2025
WATCH: Large banyan tree falls in Hilo, brings down power lines with it
HILO, Hawaii (KHON2) — The Hawaiʻi County Fire Department responded to a downed banyan tree in Hilo that had blocked the road, downed some power lines and damaged some property on July 12.
Officials say the tree had covered all lanes of Kilauea Avenue, with the branches covering one vehicle that was on the roadway. The occupants had exited the vehicle prior to first responders' arrival, HCFD said.
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In addition to the foliage in the street, downed power lines and utility poles also blocked the roadway, officials said, which ultimately resulted in the complete closure of the street.
HCFD says that the nearby Calvary Chapel was damaged as a result of the tree's falling, which officials searched and cleared. First responders also say they searched and evacuated nearby areas for safety purposes.
It is not yet clear what led to the tree's tumble.
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