On Tuesday, a major wildfire ripped over the Hawaiian island of Maui, killing at least 89 people and destroying hundreds of buildings. The still-burning fire has forced thousands of people to flee their homes and businesses.
On Tuesday afternoon, a fire broke out in the Lahaina neighbourhood of West Maui. It spread fast through the dry brush and foliage, aided by high gusts from Hurricane Dora, which was passing hundreds of miles to the south. The fire rushed across the town of Lahaina, destroying houses, businesses, and historic landmarks.
Source – San Francisco Chronicle
As search and rescue workers continue to rummage through the rubble, the dead toll from the fire is sure to grow. Many people are still missing, and authorities worry that some of them were trapped in their homes and burned alive.
The fire has also severely damaged infrastructure. Power lines were downed, roads were restricted, and water supplies were affected. The Red Cross has set up shelters for displaced individuals, and FEMA has been activated to assist with the recovery work.
The Destruction
The Maui wildfire has left enormous devastation. Lahaina, in particular, has been devastated, with hundreds of homes and businesses damaged. Schools, churches, and other landmarks have also been damaged or destroyed by the fire.
The following are some of the most damaged locations by the fire:
Lahaina: The town of Lahaina was the fire’s center. The historic district was mostly damaged, with many homes and businesses demolished. The Lahaina Civic Center and the Lahaina Plantation were also devastated by the fire.
Pulehu: The fire also severely devastated the Pulehu neighborhood in West Maui. Hundreds of homes and businesses were destroyed by the fire, which also affected the Makena Golf Course and the Keawakapu Beach Resort.
Upcountry Maui: The fire also impacted the Upcountry Maui area. Several homes and businesses were destroyed, and the Iao Valley State Monument was also affected by the fire.
The Cause
The source of the fire is still unknown, although officials assume it was caused by a downed electrical line. Strong gusts from Hurricane Dora, which was moving hundreds of miles to the south, fuelled the fire.
The Response
The fire has been fought by thousands of firemen from Hawaii and the mainland United States. Helicopters and planes have aided them by pouring water and fire retardant on the flames.
The fire continues to burn, but it is currently 85% contained. Officials aim to have everything completely under control by the end of the week.
The Recovery
The wildfire recovery process will be lengthy and difficult. Many individuals have lost their houses and businesses, and the infrastructure of the island has been seriously damaged.
FEMA has been called in to assist with the recovery work. Individuals and companies affected by the fire will be eligible for grants from the agency. FEMA will also assist in the reconstruction of infrastructure and the provision of temporary homes for displaced residents.
Assisting the Maui Wildfire Victims
Donate to the Red Cross: The Red Cross is offering assistance to individuals affected by the wildfire. Donations to the Red Cross can be made online at redcross.org or by calling 1-800-RED-CROSS.
Donate to local charity: There are a number of local charities that are also assisting those affected by the wildfire. A list of local charities can be found online.
Spread the word: You can help by sharing this post on social media or notifying your friends and family about the wildfire and the need for assistance.
Maui’s people are strong, and they will restore their community. However, the blaze has dealt the island a catastrophic blow, and recovery will take years. The Maui wildfire has been a horrific calamity. At least 89 people have been killed, and hundreds of homes and businesses have been destroyed. The rebuilding work will be lengthy and arduous, but the Maui people are resilient and will restore their community.
