Follow live updates about wildfires in Maui, Hawaii
By REBECCA BOONE (Associated Press)
The wildfires in Maui, Hawaii have caused significant destruction, including the loss of a historic town and the displacement of residents. The National Weather Service has attributed strong winds, initially driven by Hurricane Dora passing south of the island chain, as a contributing factor to the spread of the flames. As a result, power outages and the grounding of firefighting helicopters have occurred.
Hawaii Attorney General Anne Lopez’s office has announced plans for a comprehensive review of the decision-making processes and policies surrounding these wildfires. This review aims to provide transparency to the public regarding the actions taken both before and during the wildfires. Lopez stated, “Now is the time to begin this process of understanding, as we continue to support the ongoing relief effort.”
The Maui County water agency has issued a warning to residents of Kula who have running water, advising them not to drink it and to only take short, lukewarm showers in well-ventilated areas due to potential exposure to chemical vapors. The agency has reported that hundreds of pipes have been damaged by the wildfires, necessitating caution regarding water usage. It is recommended to avoid drinking even boiled water until further notice.
Andrew Whelton, an engineering professor at Purdue University, has called for a reassessment of the state’s guidance to the utility. He believes that showering in water potentially contaminated with hazardous waste levels of benzene is not advisable and suggests implementing a “Do Not Use” order until further analysis can be conducted.
When water pipes are damaged or city water tanks lose pressure, unpressurized pipes can draw in smoke and other contaminants. Some of these contaminants, commonly associated with urban wildfires, are known to be cancer-causing. To prevent further contamination, crews are currently shutting off valves for damaged pipes. The Department of Water Supply plans to flush the system and test for bacteria and volatile organic compounds based on recommendations from the Hawaii State Department of Health.
A recent rescue effort by the U.S. Coast Guard involved saving two children and three adults who had escaped the flames in Maui by jumping into the ocean. Seventeen people were rescued, and all are reported to be in stable condition. The death toll from the wildfires has risen to 67, according to Maui County officials, and is expected to increase further as search and rescue operations continue.
According to disaster and risk modeling company Karen Clark & Company, this week’s wildfires are projected to be the second costliest disaster in Hawaii’s history, following damages caused by Hurricane Iniki in 1992. As approximately 3,500 structures were within the fire’s perimeter, the destruction has been extensive, particularly in the tourist town of Lahaina in west Maui. The fires have destroyed 1,000 buildings, and the death toll currently stands at 55.
Plans for recovery are underway, with some residents and visitors being allowed to return to parts of Lahaina. However, a curfew is in place from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. to protect residences and property. The Maui Humane Society is seeking donations to care for injured animals and manage an influx of lost pets resulting from the wildfires, and the organization has already raised over half of its $300,000 goal.
Efforts are being made to evacuate people from Maui and accommodate visitors who are leaving the island. The Hawaii Emergency Management Agency and the Hawaii Tourism Authority have requested the suspension of unnecessary travel to create space for first responders and volunteers. Maui County Mayor Richard Bissen Jr. surveyed the damage in Lahaina, describing it as resembling a war zone or aftermath of a bomb explosion.
Pope Francis has expressed his condolences to the people of Hawaii and offered prayers for the victims, injured individuals, displaced residents, and emergency responders. Professional golfer Collin Morikawa has pledged to donate $1,000 for every birdie he makes in the next three PGA Tour events to support fire relief efforts. He has a personal connection to the area, as his grandparents were born in Lahaina.
Search and rescue efforts are still ongoing, with cadaver dogs being brought in to assist in locating and identifying victims. The number of deaths has increased to 55, and the Lahaina fire remains active. Authorities are urging patience to allow them to complete the recovery process before residents with undamaged homes can return. The community is coming together to support those affected, with various organizations seeking donations and offering assistance.