The National Weather Service has issued a red flag warning for West Hawaii, Ka'u and parts of Puna.

The red flag warning is in effect until 6pm today and means there is a high risk of fires quickly spreading out of control due to strong winds, low relative humidity, dry conditions and warm weather.

Because of the warning, Hawaiian Electric announced it may implement its Public Safety Power Shutoff Program (PSPS) to proactively shut off power in communities at high risk of wildfires.

Customers in these areas are urged to implement their own emergency plans and prepare for the possibility of extended power outages, according to Hawaiian Electric.

For more information and maps, call Hawaiian Electric's PSPS hotline toll-free at 1 (844) 483-8666 or go to hawaiianelectric.com/PSPS.

Meanwhile, Mayor Mitch Roth has signed an emergency declaration banning outdoor burning in North Kohala, South Kohala, North Kona, Ka'u, “parts of Puna” and the interior of the Big Island between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m

Outdoor open fires are banned in the same districts during the same period, as are activities such as welding, grinding and flame cutting.

The proclamation does not specify which parts of Puna.

Residents are also advised to avoid parking on dry vegetation and instead favor sidewalks, asphalt or other cleared areas.

“Given the current weather conditions, the risk of fire is high and these measures are being taken to protect our residents and property,” Roth said in a statement. “We ask the community to follow these rules and exercise caution.”

Hawaii County Civil Defense will provide updates on conditions over the radio and through its Everbridge notification system.