Maui fires live update: Hawaii wildfires death toll rises to 67 as emergency alert failures revealed

As the death toll from the devastating wildfires on the island of Maui, Hawaii climbs to 67, officials believe it could be the deadliest disaster in the state’s history.

On Friday morning, Hawaii Governor Josh Green said search and recovery efforts were underway for the approximately 1,000 people still unaccounted for.

So far, officials have only searched for people outside of buildings but were awaiting other support teams, including cadaver dogs, to search the interior of buildings.

The lack of power and cellphone service may have contributed to failed alerts that were meant to warn residents of the incoming fire.

The wildfires continue to devastate Lahaina, with more than 1,700 buildings and billions of dollars in property destroyed.

Amazon founder Jeff Bezos has pledged $100m to fund relief efforts.

Key points

• Death toll rises to 67 in devastating Maui wildfires

• Hawaii governor says 1,000 people still missing

• Death toll may rise as building interiors have yet to be searched.

• What is the cause of the wildfires?

• Satellite images show before and after photos of historic Lahaina

• Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sanchez donate $100m to Maui fire relief effort

Death toll rises to 80 in Maui wildfires

10:04 , Tara Cobham

The death toll has risen to 80 as a result of the wildfires that decimated parts of the island of Maui this past week, officials in Hawaii said Friday.

The number of confirmed fatalities in the 9 p.m. announcement by the County of Maui increased from the previous figure of 67.

Gov. Josh Green had previously warned the death toll would likely rise as search and rescue operations continue. Authorities set a curfew from 10 p.m. until 6 a.m. Saturday.

"The recovery's going to be extraordinarily complicated, but we do want people to get back to their homes and just do what they can to assess safely, because it's pretty dangerous," Green told Hawaii News Now.

Cadaver-sniffing dogs were deployed to search for the dead, Maui County Mayor Richard Bissen Jr. said.

FEMA puts Lahaina rebuild cost at $5.52bn as 2,207 structures damaged or destroyed

15:29 , Oliver O'Connell

The Pacific Disaster Center (PDC) and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) on Saturday released damage assessment maps of the multiple wildfires in Maui County.

According to PDC, as of 11 August 2023, the Lahaina Fire resulted in an estimated total of 2,719 structures exposed; 2,207 structures damaged or destroyed; and 2,170 acres burned.

This far exceeds initial reports that 270 structures had been damaged or destroyed. Approximately 86 per cent of buildings exposed to the fire were classified as residential.

The total rebuild cost for the town is projected to be $5.52bn.

Elsewhere, in Kula, another 544 structures were exposed and 678 acres burned. The estimated rebuild cost there is $434m, according to the maps.

Scale of wildfire scarring on charred Maui land captured in aerial footage

15:00 , Tara Cobham

Drone video shows the devastating aftermath of wildfires that ravaged the island of Maui.

Large patches of land in the area of Olinda were charred black and brown, while burnt trees remained standing as smoke loomed overhead.

Maui County officials confirmed Friday afternoon (11 August) that the death toll from the Hawaii wildfires had increased to 67.

The blazes are the state’s deadliest natural disaster in decades, surpassing a 1960 tsunami that killed 61 people.

Fueled by a dry summer and strong winds from a passing hurricane, at least three wildfires erupted on Maui this week, racing through parched brush covering the island.

Oliver Browning reports:

Scale of wildfire scarring on charred Maui land captured in aerial footage

‘I’m going to walk through fire to find her’: The desperate search for 1,000 missing in Hawaii wildfires

14:00 , Ariana Baio

Rachel Engel was on the phone with her best friend Avery Harden when gusts of up to 80 mph (128kms) whipped up by Hurricane Dora began blowing through Lahaina, on the western edge of Maui, on Monday.

“We thought it was just going to be high winds, that happens in Hawaii,” Ms Engel, from Detroit, told The Independent.

On Tuesday morning, Ms Harden phoned back to say that a fire had broken out behind her apartment building without warning.

Bevan Hurley reports:

Desperate families wait for news of loved ones among the 1,000 missing in Maui fires

Watch: Lahaina residents escape wildfires by jumping into ocean

13:00 , Ariana Baio

Governor of Hawaii and mayor of Maui visit remains of Lahaina

12:00 , Ariana Baio

Maui residents return to charred remains of historic town

11:30 , Tara Cobham

Residents of Lahaina were allowed back home on Friday 11 August for the first time since wildfires killed at least 67 people and turned large swaths of the centuries-old town into a hellscape of ashen rubble.

The devastation was clear to see, with nearly every building flattened to debris on Front Street, the heart of the Maui community and the economic hub of the island.

Incinerated cars were seen crushed by downed telephone poles, while charred elevator shafts still stand as testaments to the burned-down apartment buildings they once served.

Pools could also be seen filled with charcoal-coloured water.

Oliver Browning reports:

Scenes of devastation as Maui residents return to charred remains of historic town

Satellite mobile hotspots reach Maui to try to rebuild communications and find the missing amid wildfires

11:00 , Ariana Baio

Portable mobile hotspots have arrived in Maui to restore Internet service and help victims of the devastating wildfire call for help.

At least 55 people were killed by the blaze and the death toll is expected to rise with around 1,000 people on the Hawaiian island still unaccounted for.

Hawaii Governor Josh Green told reporters on Thursday that with communication systems destroyed in the fires, many of those unaccounted for had been unable to confirm they were safe.

Graeme Massie reports:

Satellite mobile hotspots reach Maui to try to rebuild communications

Jason Momoa issues stern warning to holidaymakers travelling to Maui

10:30 , Tara Cobham

Jason Momoa has issued a stern message to holidaymakers hoping to still travel to Maui amid the fatal wildfires.

Two days after sharing his “heartbreak” about the wildfires that have devastated the Hawaiian island, Momoa shared a post stating: “Maui is not the place to have your vacation right now. DO NOT TRAVEL TO MAUI.”

He continued: “Do not convince yourself that your presence is needed on an island that is suffering this deeply.

“Mahalo to everyone who has donated and shown aloha to the community in this time of need.”

Jacob Stolworthy reports:

Jason Momoa issues stern warning to people still travelling to Maui on holiday

Famous banyan tee in Lahaina is burned, but still standing

10:00 , Ariana Baio

Newlyweds married in Hawaii detail ‘heartbreaking’ escape from Maui wildfires

09:42 , Tara Cobham

A newlywed couple who were married in Hawaii have detailed their “heartbreaking” escape from Maui wildfires.

Cindy and Bob Curler hadn’t envisioned spending their wedding night sharing a sofa in a garage, but that’s what happened when they were unable to get back to their Lahaina hotel on Tuesday 8 August, as wildfires swallowed the town.

Their driver was forced to take them to the site where he parks his limousine, with Cindy still in her strapless lace gown, and Bob in his crisp blue suit.

“We’re more heartbroken to see what the town is like and what the locals are dealing with,” Cindy said after the experience.

“Yes, it was our wedding day and night, but that’s only one night for us where these people are impacted for the rest of their lives.”

Oliver Browning reports:

Hawaii newlyweds detail ‘heartbreaking’ escape from Maui wildfires

Man relives ‘screams of horror’ as he spent three hours in ocean trying to escape

09:00 , Ariana Baio

West Maui fire causes Friday night evacuation

08:30 , Tara Cobham

Police say a new fire burning on the Hawaii island of Maui has triggered the evacuation of a community to the northeast of the area that burned earlier this week.

The fire prompted the evacuation of people in Kaanapali in West Maui on Friday night, the Maui Police Department announced on social media. No details of the evacuation were immediately provided.

Authorities in Hawaii are working to evacuate people from Maui as firefighters work to contain wildfires and put out flare-ups.

The County of Maui said early Friday that 14,900 visitors left Maui by air Thursday.

Airlines added additional flights to accommodate visitors leaving the island. The county advised visitors that they can book flights to Honolulu and continue on another flight to their destination.

The Hawaii Emergency Management Agency called on residents and visitors to suspend unnecessary travel to the island to make space for first responders and volunteers heading there to help residents. Visitors on nonessential travel were being asked to leave the island, according to the Hawai*i Tourism Authority.

ICYMI: ‘No indication’ warning sirens sounded before wildfires, report says

08:00 , Ariana Baio

Residents in Maui claim they were not warned of the fast-moving wildfire that killed at least 55 people and displaced thousands of others this past week.

While officials say they sent out alerts, a new report from Associated Press indicates that the Hawaii Emergency Management records show “no indication that warning sirens sounded before people ran for their lives.”

Officials sent alerts to cell phones, televisions and radio stations – however, the area was experiencing “widespread” power and cellphone outages.

Maui fires knocked out ‘coconut wireless’ neighbour warning network

07:32 , Tara Cobham

Earlier this week, rapidly moving wildfires knocked out phone service on Maui, preventing the usual local “coconut wireless” network of neighbours informing each other of the latest news from warning residents on the island they were in danger, according to Hawai’i Governor Josh Green.

“Normally, we would phone call one another, and through what’s often called the ‘coconut wireless,’ where everyone speaks to everyone else in their community, we would know right away that there was danger,” he told CNN on Friday. “That communication was cut off by the destruction of essentially 1000 degree heat that was coming down the mountain.”

According to records from emergency management officials on the island, the state’s 400 emergency warning sirens didn’t trigger as fires sped towards the historic town of Lahaina this week, The Associated Press reports.

Josh Marcus reports:

Maui fires knocked out phones, stopping alerts from local ‘coconut wireless’ network

Maui wildfires: In pictures

07:00 , Ariana Baio

Hawaii Tourism Authority asks non-essential travellers to leave Hawaii

06:00 , Ariana Baio

For those looking to travel to Hawaii or currently travelling to Hawaii, authorities are asking to cancel or return home so hotels can be used to provide shelter for those who have lot their homes.

At a news conference on Wednesday, Hawaii’s State Department of Transportation director said non-essential travel to Maui was strongly discouraged.

The Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) echoed the statement saying: “Non-essential travel to Maui is strongly discouraged at this time. Visitors currently on Maui for non-essential travel reasons are being asked to leave the island as rescue and recovery efforts continue.”

Maui fires in pics: Aerial photos show extent of destruction caused by Hawaii wildfires

05:00 , Ariana Baio

Aerial photos and videos of the devastating wildfires raging in Hawaii this week have revealed the destruction that has followed in their wake.

The massive wildfires have led to the deaths of at least 55 people and 1,000 missing on Hawaii island apart from devastating the historic town of Lahaina.

The photos and videos of the devastation in Maui island have shown Lahaina left in rubble as authorities fear this could be one of the worst disasters experienced by the island community in decades.

Aerial photos show extent of destruction caused by Hawaii wildfires

Watch: Mayor of Maui says the death toll is based on people found outside of buildings

04:00 , Ariana Baio

Hawaii fires: Lahaina’s 150-year-old banyan tree hit by wildfire

03:00 , Ariana Baio

For generations, the banyan tree along Lahaina town’s historic Front Street served as a gathering place, its leafy branches unfurling majestically to give shade from the Hawaiian sun. By most accounts, the sprawling tree was the heart of the oceanside community — towering more than 60 feet (18 meters) and anchored by multiple trunks that span nearly an acre.

Like the town itself, its very survival is now in question, its limbs scorched by a devastating fire that has wiped away generations of history.

For 150 years, the colossal tree-shaded community events, including art fairs. It shaded townsfolk and tourists alike from the Hawaiian sun, befitting for a place once called “Lele,” the Hawaiian word for “relentless sun.”

Ring by ring, the tree has captured history.

Lahaina’s beloved 150-year-old banyan tree hit by wildfire

How uncommon are wildfires in Hawaii?

02:00 , Ariana Baio

The wildfire that hit parts of Maui this past week brought with it an unprecedented level of destruction and death.

But while this incident is uncommon, the state is no stranger to wildfires.

“Wildland fires are not unusual in Hawaii, there are occasional fires every year. This year’s fires, however, are burning a greater area than usual, and the fire behaviour is extreme, with fast spread rates and large flames,” Dr Thomas Smith, an associate professor at the London School of Economics and Political Science said in a statement.

Dr Smith says the fire’s speed and intensity was driven by the land which contained plenty of dry and combustible vegetation.

“Land abandonment is a factor that played a role in the intensity and speed of the fire,” Dr Smith said.

“It’s clear from satellite imagery and from those who know the area well that the rural land to the east of Lahaina was once intensely managed plantations, with irrigation ditches and terracing. The agricultural land would have been fire resistant, with a very low fuel load (flammable vegetation) and higher fuel moisture due to the irrigation.”

“Since most of this land has been abandoned, long grasses, shrubs and young trees had taken root, substantially increasing the amount of flammable vegetation surrounding the town,” he added.

Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sanchez donate $100m to Maui fire relief effort

01:37 , Josh Marcus

Amazon founder Jeff Bezos and his fiancée Lauren Sanchez are pledging $100m towards relief efforts in Maui after a series of devastating wildfires.

“Jeff and I are heartbroken by what’s happening in Maui. We are thinking of all the families that have lost so much and a community that has been left devastated,” Ms Sanchez wrote on Instagram on Friday. “The immediate needs are important, and so is the longer term rebuilding that will have to happen – even after much of the attention has subsided. Jeff and I are creating a Maui Fund and are dedicating $100 million to help Maui get back on its feet now and over the coming years as the continuing needs reveal themselves.”

More details in our full story.

Maui fires death toll now at 67

01:14 , Josh Marcus

The death toll in the Hawaii fires has risen to 67 people, meaning the disaster on Maui has surpassed the deadliest disaster in recent state history, a 1961 tsunami that killed 61 people.

Maui wildfire survivor tells of ‘dead bodies floating in the water’

01:00 , Ariana Baio

A Maui wildlife survivor has told how there are still “dead bodies in the water floating” following the devastating blazes that have killed at least 55 people.

Hawaiian residents are bracing for the death toll to climb higher with around 1,000 people still missing in the apocalyptic wildfires.

Kekoa Lansford told the BBC that his hometown of Lahaina, which was at the centre of the wildfires and saw 1,000 structures burn down, would take “years to fix” after the disaster.

Graeme Massie reports:

Maui wildfire survivor tells of ‘dead bodies floating in the water’

Family of veteran missing in devastating Maui wildfires clings to hope he escaped the blaze

Saturday 12 August 2023 00:00 , Ariana Baio

The family of a Korean War veteran is desperately searching for him after they lost contact with him amid the devastating wildfires in Hawaii.

Authorities in fire-scorched Maui County have confirmed at least 55 fatalities, as the largest blaze, still raging in Lahaina, is now 80 per cent contained. More than 1,000 people are still unaccounted for in what is believed to be the deadliest disaster in the state’s history, Governor Josh Green said during a press conference on Thursday night, warning that the death toll is expected to climb.

State and federal agencies are scrambling to assist endangered residents and hundreds of families across the country have been unable to locate their loved ones due to cell phone service being down.

Kim Berly told The Independent that she is worried her 79-year-old father Maurice Buen, who lives on Wainee St in Lahaina, was caught in the fire. Ms Berly said she last spoke with Mr Buen on Sunday and is now clinging to hope that he made it out of the blaze.

Andrea Blanco reports:

Family of veteran missing in deadly Maui wildfires clings to hope he escaped blaze

Death toll in Hawai’i disaster rises to 59

Friday 11 August 2023 23:52 , Josh Marcus

An estimated 59 people died in wildfires that ravaged the Hawaiian island of Maui this week, Governor Josh Green told CNN on Friday.

Another 1,000 people are reportedly missing in the disaster, according to officials.

Governor of Hawaii says he’s ‘never seen’ something like Maui fires

Friday 11 August 2023 23:34 , Josh Marcus

Hawai’i governor Josh Green says he’s “never” seen a combination of disasters like the recent, devastating fires in Maui.

“One can safely say we do have wildfires every year but we’ve always been able to contain them,” he told CNN on Friday. “Whether the variables are different this time or not, I’ve been in Hawaii for 23 years, but I have never seen the convergence of a fire, a hurricane, and gale force winds at the same time near one of our towns.”

Over 1500 structures were damaged or destroyed in Hawaii wildfire

Friday 11 August 2023 23:00 , Ariana Baio

A report from The New York Times estimated that around 1,1900 structures in Lahaina on the island of Maui were “visibly damaged or destroyed” by the wildfires.

The estimate is a massive increase from the roughly 700 structures that were previously thought to be burned in the fires.

Satellite mobile hotspots reach Maui to try to rebuild communications

Friday 11 August 2023 22:30 , Ariana Baio

Portable mobile hotspots have arrived in Maui to restore Internet service and help victims of the devastating wildfire call for help.

Hawaii Governor Josh Green told reporters on Thursday that with communication systems destroyed in the fires, many of those unaccounted for had been unable to confirm they were safe.

“Here’s the challenge: there’s no power, no internet, no phone, no radio. You compound some of that. So when we’re speaking to our officers, we need them to get a sat phone,” he said.

“There’s around 1,000 missing. It doesn’t mean that many have passed - I’m not saying that at all - but because we can’t contact them we can’t know.”

Verizon told CNN that its teams on Thursday had deployed a first batch of satellite-based mobile hotspots at evacuation sites on Maui.

The company was also barging heavier equipment from Honolulu, including mobile equipment on wheels that connect to a carrier’s service via satellite. It was also moving a satellite trailer that provides service to cell sites with damaged fibre connections.

“Our team is closely monitoring the situation on the ground and our network performance,” a Verizon spokesperson told CNN.

“Verizon engineers on the island are working to restore service in impacted areas as quickly and safely as possible.”

Is it safe to travel to Hawaii?

Friday 11 August 2023 22:00 , Ariana Baio

The Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) has said: “Non-essential travel to Maui is strongly discouraged at this time. Visitors currently on Maui for non-essential travel reasons are being asked to leave the island as rescue and recovery efforts continue.”

The HTA added: “Currently, travel is still welcomed to the island of Hawaii. Visitors are encouraged to contact their hotel accommodations provider and airlines for updates that could affect their stay on island.”

Benjamin Parker reports:

Maui fires: Is it safe to travel to Hawaii?

Why the wildfire loss of Lahaina’s banyan tree is so devastating

Friday 11 August 2023 21:20 , Ariana Baio

As wildfires tore through the Hawaiian Island of Maui this week, not even the famed banyan tree could be spared from the raging flames.

The beloved tree, which has stood at the centre of the historic town of Lahaina for more than 150 years, was left scorched and charred beyond recognition, images showing its blackened branches and trunks among the embers.

But, despite the damage, for now, the tree is still standing.

For many years, the iconic tree along the Lahaina town’s Front Street served as a gathering place.

Faiza Saqib reports:

Why the wildfire loss of Lahaina’s banyan tree is so devastating

Residents of Lahaina will be permitted to return on Friday

Friday 11 August 2023 21:00 , Ariana Baio

Hawaii governor Josh Green said residents of Lahaina – the town on Maui ravaged by wildfires this past week – will be allowed to return on Friday, 11 August.

“They will see destruction like they’ve not ever seen in their lives,” Mr Green told local news outlet KHON 2.

People can expect an announcement from Maui mayor Richard Bissen about how residents can return home and if there will be a curfew.

Terrified residents make desperate escape in apocalyptic scenes

Friday 11 August 2023 20:45 , Ariana Baio

These shocking scenes show terrified residents attempting to make their desperate escape from the wildfires in Lahaina, Hawaii.

The footage captured by Bosco Bae Jr resembles scenes from Hollywood movies as people try to escape falling trees, burning buildings, and flying ash all around.

The footage comes as the Mayor of Maui, Richard Bissen revealed the historic town has been totally wiped out by wildfires, stating: “It’s all gone.”

The death toll from the devastating wildfires on the island of Maui, Hawaii, has now climbed to 55 – as officials warned that the loss of life is expected to rise further.

Lucy Leeson reports:

Hawaii fires: Terrified residents make desperate escape in apocalyptic scenes

Maui resident describes tragic scene from Lahaina

Friday 11 August 2023 20:10 , Ariana Baio

A resident of Maui described a horrifying scene on the island in the wake of the wildfires that burned through towns and neighbourhoods this past week.

“This is not even the worst of it,” Kekoa Lansford, a resident of Lahaina told BBC on Thursday.

“We still got dead bodies in the water floating and on the seawall, they’ve been sitting there since last night,” Mr Lansford said.

Mr Lansford said he felt like the town was not getting the help it needed.

On Friday, officials toured Lahaina while teams of people began recovery efforts.

More than 14,000 visitors left Maui

Friday 11 August 2023 19:45 , Ariana Baio

On Thursday, approximately 14,900 visitors left the island of Maui after wildfires tore through neighbourhoods and towns.

The County of Maui said in an update, posted to Facebook, that the visitors left on flights departing out of the Kahului Airport in Maui.

Twenty-five buses have been operating as a shuttle service from 8.30am until 5pm to pick up visitors from hotels to the airport.

‘No indication’ warning sirens sounded before wildfires, report says

Friday 11 August 2023 19:07 , Ariana Baio

Residents in Maui claim they were not warned of the fast-moving wildfire that killed at least 55 people and displaced thousands of others this past week.

While officials say they sent out alerts, a new report from Associated Press indicates that the Hawaii Emergency Management records show “no indication that warning sirens sounded before people ran for their lives.”

Officials sent alerts to cell phones, televisions and radio stations – however, the area was experiencing “widespread” power and cellphone outages.

Man relives ‘screams of horror’ as he spent three hours in ocean trying to escape

Friday 11 August 2023 18:55 , Ariana Baio

Maui residents recounted hearing “screams of horror” as wildfires engulfed areas of the Hawaiian island.

Residents of Lahaina, a resort town on the island, were told to jump into the ocean as flames approached the town.

Ydriss Nouara told Sky News that police told him to jump into the sea as they could not rescue him from the encroaching flames.

“The ocean was pulling us, we had debris falling on us, we were trying to get wet and not burn,” Nouara said, adding he was in the water for around three hours before being rescued.

Vice President says she will not visit Hawaii yet

Friday 11 August 2023 18:27 , Ariana Baio

Vice President Kamala Harris told reporters on Friday that she and President Joe Biden are monitoring the wildfire disaster in Hawaii but do not plan to visit yet so they do not take away resources.

“We don’t want to distract from the resources that need to go in to the victims of the tragedy, and of course the needs of the first responders have to be able to focus on that issue and not perry about focusing on us,” Ms Harris said.

She added that she and Mr Biden are “deeply concerned” about what is happening in Maui.

“We are coordinating federal resources to swiftly get there to support the work that has to be done,” Ms Harris said.

Governor of Hawaii and mayor of Maui visit remains of Lahaina

Friday 11 August 2023 17:55 , Ariana Baio

Friday morning updates: Firefighters working to contain fires in Maui

Friday 11 August 2023 17:20 , Ariana Baio

The County of Maui provided updates on Friday morning on the situation in Hawaii after wildfires ravaged parts of Maui.

Approximately 21 firefighters from the Honolulu Fire Department were working to extinguish flare-ups and contain fires in Lahaina, Pulehu / Kihei and Upcountry.

They are being assisted by seven supervisory personnel and four vehicles.

A nine-member team also arrived to conduct search and rescue efforts.

FEMA search-and-rescue teams as well as the Nevada Task Force arrived Thursday evening with cadaver dogs to conduct recovery efforts.

Some cellphone service restored in west Maui

Friday 11 August 2023 16:40 , Ariana Baio

In an update from the County of Maui, officials said more cellphone service was available in West Maui on Friday.

“If you have a cell signal and cannot make a call, try texting instead,” the County of Maui wrote on Facebook.

Power and water are slowly being restored as well in parts of Hawaii where the wildfires hit.

Death toll may rise as building interiors have yet to be searched.

Friday 11 August 2023 16:13 , Ariana Baio

As of Friday morning, a total of 55 people have died as a result of the devastating wildfires in Maui, Hawaii – but that number could increase.

Richard Bissen, the mayor of Maui County said the death toll is only based on people who were found outside as the inside of buildings have yet to be searched, he told TODAY. 

“Right now our focus is finding any missing persons,” Mr Bissen said. “We want to reunite families.”

Authorities are waiting for FEMA officials to help in the interior search for people.

Hawaii Tourism Authority asks non-essential travellers to leave Hawaii

Friday 11 August 2023 15:45 , Ariana Baio

For those looking to travel to Hawaii or currently travelling to Hawaii, authorities are asking to cancel or return home so hotels can be used to provide shelter for those who have lot their homes.

At a news conference on Wednesday, Hawaii’s State Department of Transportation director said non-essential travel to Maui was strongly discouraged.

The Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) echoed the statement saying: “Non-essential travel to Maui is strongly discouraged at this time. Visitors currently on Maui for non-essential travel reasons are being asked to leave the island as rescue and recovery efforts continue.”

Jason Momoa says he is ‘devastated’ and ‘heartbroken’ for those impacted in Maui

Friday 11 August 2023 15:20 , Ariana Baio

Jason Momoa, the American actor from Hawaii, has posted several resources on Instagram for those looking to assist in the search, recovery and rebuilding efforts in Maui after the wildfires.

“We are devastated and heartbroken for our friends and ‘ohana on Maui who been impacted by the recent wildfires,” Mr Momoa wrote.

The actor provided several links to nonprofit organisations accepting donations to assist in relief.

Cadaver dogs assisting in search and rescue

Friday 11 August 2023 15:00 , Ariana Baio

Search and recovery efforts are underway in Maui where wildfires devastated towns and neighbourhoods and assisting in the recovery are cadaver dogs.

While the initial death toll in Hawaii was around 36 people, governor Josh Green said he was anticipating more lost lives as officials begin searching the remaining homes of people who were unable to leave.

Cadaver dogs from California and Washington were in Maui on Thursday to assist in those efforts, Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) director Robert Fenton said.

“The devastation I saw today is significant,” Mr Fenton said.

A brief history of natural disasters blighting the tropical paradise

Friday 11 August 2023 14:40 , Ariana Baio

The blazes currently devastating Maui and the Big Island in Hawaii already constitute the state’s worst natural disaster since 1960 – as at least 55 people are confirmed dead, thousands of residents and tourists have been forced to evacuate and the picturesque and historic beach resort of Lahaina has been destroyed.

What’s more, the tragedy also already represents America’s second-deadliest wildfire outbreak of the last 100 years, with only the Camp Fire that struck California in 2018 surpassing the current Hawaiian death toll, which is still rising and could yet surpass it.

Joe Sommerlad reports:

A brief history of natural disasters in Hawaii, from tsunamis to wildfires

Governor of Hawaii asks people with homes to ‘consider’ taking in others

Friday 11 August 2023 14:15 , Ariana Baio

During a press conference on Thursday, Hawaii governor, Josh Green, appealed to Hawaii residents with unharmed homes to take others in as they continue search and recovery efforts.

“What we saw was likely the largest natural disaster in Hawaii’s state history,” Mr Green said. “All of us have a loved on here on Maui that we know of, that lost a house, that lost a friend.”

Mr Green said the state would be working with hotels to find places to shelter those who were affected by the wildfires.

‘If you have additional space in your home, if you have the capacity to take someone in from west Maui, please do,” Mr Green said. “Please consider bringing those people into your lives.”

Maui updates will air daily on public radio stations

Friday 11 August 2023 13:50 , Ariana Baio

As Maui works to recover those who have died in the massive wildfires and rebuild the neighbourhoods that have been burned down, the County of Maui will provide daily updates via radio.

Beginning on Friday at 9am HST, the County of Maui will provide updates twice a day – once at 9am and another at 3pm.

The updates will allow those without internet service or electricity to hear the latest in the recovery efforts. Other information will be available on the County of Maui’s social media pages and website.

The following radio stations will have the updates:

• Pacific Media Group on KPOA FM 92.9 (west side)

• FM 93.5; KJKS FM 99.3 (west side)

• FM 99.9 FM; KJMD FM 107.1 (west side)

• FM 98.3; KHLI FM 101.7 (west side)

• FM 92.5; KMVI AM 900

• FM 102.5

• KNUI AM 550

• FM 106.1

• KAOI Radio Group on 1110 AM / 96.7 FM

• KPMW FM 105.5

• Akaku’s KAKU 88.5

Watch: Terrified residents film desperate wildfire escape in shocking scenes

Friday 11 August 2023 13:25 , Ariana Baio

Oldest hotel in Hawaii destroyed by wildfires

Friday 11 August 2023 13:05 , Rachel Sharp

The oldest hotel in Hawaii is one of the thousands of buildings destroyed by the wildfires that have ravaged the historic town of Lahaina in Maui.

The Pioneer Inn began operating as a hotel back in 1901, making it 122 years old today.

On Wednesday, Best Western Hotels – which now runs the storied hotel – confirmed that it had been lost to the wildfires on 9 August.

All guests were safely evacuated from the hotel and its restaurant Papa’aina, famed for its brunches.

The restaurant’s chef Lee Ann Wong took to Facebook to speak of the “devastating loss and tragedy that is unfolding on Maui” this week.

“Heartbroken. There are no words for the devastating loss and tragedy that is unfolding on Maui as reports start to come in of loss of human life, behind the hundreds of homes and businesses that have fallen to yesterday’s brush fires that are still raging on the west side,” she wrote.

“We are still looking to connect with at least a half dozen employees but cell towers have been down since early yesterday morning. Thank you to all who have reached out to me personally and to @papaainamaui.

:Historic Lahaina has been my place of business for the past three years and the Pioneer Inn became my second home on Maui. I don’t even know where to begin, but today is just for making sure our friends and coworkers are safe. To those who are concerned for #alextheparrot , Alex was safely evacuated yesterday and is in the care of the hotel’s GM.

“My culinary community, my friends, my people, I know you all want to help and there is already movement and response from several organizations, as soon as I find out more will share. Stay safe out there.”

VOICES: Maui is my home – after the wildfires, I no longer recognise the place I love

Friday 11 August 2023 12:55 , Rachel Sharp

“It’s raining on the North Shore of Maui this morning where I live. But the rain is too late, and in the wrong place, to help the Maui Fire Department save the historic town of Lahaina.

“I’m an English ex-pat, naturalized both to the US and to the islands of Hawaii after 17 years. Maui is my home. As a resident of Maui, married into a family born and raised on the island, the loss of Lahaina’s Old Town is devastating.

“First and foremost is the loss of life. Maui is a small island; everyone knows everyone, or at least knows someone who knows everyone.”

Rich Hill writes for The Independent:

Maui is my home – the wildfires have destroyed the place I love | Rich Hill

Collin Morikawa has roots in Lahaina. He’s pledging $1,000 per birdie for Hawaii fires relief

Friday 11 August 2023 12:45 , Maroosha Muzaffar

Collin Morikawa is pledging $1,000 for every birdie he makes the next three PGA Tour events to help with relief for the deadly wildfires in Hawaii. For him, it’s personal.

His grandparents were born in Lahaina, the historic town on Maui where Front Street and all its restaurants and shops have been obliterated by the wind-swept fires that have claimed at least 36 lives. He still has relatives on Maui, though most have moved to Oahu.

“I think they’re all right, but just to hear ... woke up this morning, just checking the news, and to see how many people have passed away from that, yeah. I’m at a loss for words,” Morikawa said.

Morikawa, who won the PGA Championship and the British Open within two years after graduating from California-Berkeley, began his bid Thursday with six birdies in his opening round of 65 in the FedEx St. Jude Championship.

He posted his plans on Instagram on Thursday morning, and by the end of the day had decided to send the money raised to Maui United Way and World Central Kitchen to help survivors on Maui and elsewhere in Hawaii.

Collin Morikawa pledges $1,000 per birdie for Hawaii fires relief

- Associated Press

Hawaiian Airlines offers $19 flights for people to escape Maui wildfires

Friday 11 August 2023 12:25 , Rachel Sharp

Hawaiian Airlines is offering $19 flights for people to escape the Maui wildfires, a spokesperson for the airlines has said.

Hurricane-fuelled winds have ignited fires in Hawaii, resulting in the tragic deaths of at least 55 people and 1,000 people still missing.

It was announced that Hawaiian Airlines will be offering one-way flights from Maui to Honolulu starting at $19 late Thursday.

Read the full story:

Hawaiian Airlines offers $19 flights for people to escape Maui wildfires

How to help or donate in response to the deadly wildfire in Maui

Friday 11 August 2023 12:05 , Maroosha Muzaffar

While rescue and emergency operations continued Thursday at the deadly wildfires that swept across the Hawaiian island of Maui, many people are already looking for ways to support the response and provide relief to those affected.

The full extent of the damage and the recovery needs may not be known for up to a week, said Regine Webster, vice president of the Center for Disaster Philanthropy, and she urged people to be patient before deciding where to give their support.

“You literally have to wait for the firefighters to complete their work before that damage assessment can be fully realized,” she said.

Philanthropy experts recommend giving to experienced organizations that are well-situated to respond to a specific disaster. Major disaster response organizations like the American Red Cross have said they are already communicating with local and federal governments to provide assistance.

How to help or donate in response to the deadly wildfire in Maui

'Ash and debris': Journalist covering Maui fires surveys destruction of once-vibrant Hawaii town

Friday 11 August 2023 11:45 , Maroosha Muzaffar

A Las Vegas-based video journalist for The Associated Press dispatched to cover devastating wind-fueled wildfires in Hawaii says the scene over Maui was one of the worst he’s seen in more than eight years of covering the disasters:

'Ash and debris': Journalist covering Maui fires surveys destruction of once-vibrant Hawaii town

- Associated Press

WATCH: Oprah Winfrey hands out supplies to those impacted by Maui wildfires

Friday 11 August 2023 11:35 , Rachel Sharp

ICYMI: United Airlines only operating flights out of Maui to assist in evacuations

Friday 11 August 2023 11:25 , Ariana Baio

United Airlines said they have removed inbound flights to Kahului Airport to assist in evacuating visitors as the island battles wildfires.

The airlines said in a statement that they are monitoring the situation in Hawaii “closely” and “emphasising safety” of their employees in Maui, according to NBC News.

“We’ve canceled today’s inbound flights to Kahului Airport so our planes can fly empty to Maui and be used as passenger flights back to the mainland,” United said.

The airline is also offering refunds to passengers who want to cancel their flights.

Mick Fleetwood says his Hawaii restaurant was ‘lost’ in devastating Maui wildfires

Friday 11 August 2023 11:05 , Rachel Sharp

Mick Fleetwood has confirmed that his restaurant in Hawaii has been burnt down by the ongoing deadly wildfires in Maui.

The Fleetwood Mac co-founder, 76, wrote in a post on X, the social media platform formerly known as Twitter, that Fleetwood’s on Front Street “has been lost” as the fires rip through the historic town of Lahaina on the island.

Read the full story:

Mick Fleetwood says his Hawaii restaurant was ‘lost’ in devastating Maui wildfires

WATCH: Hawaii governor admits it will take 'many years to recover' from devastating wildfires

Friday 11 August 2023 10:55 , Rachel Sharp

What’s the containment of the wildfires?

Friday 11 August 2023 10:30 , Rachel Sharp

The devastating wildfire that has destroyed the historic town of Lahaina was 80 percent contained by Thursday morning local time, according to Maui officials.

Firefighters were also making progress in the battles against two other major fires across the Hawaiian island.

However, despite the progress, none of the wildfires which have been burning on Maui since Tuesday are 100 percent contained yet.

Oprah Winfrey seen handing out supplies in Maui

Friday 11 August 2023 10:20 , Rachel Sharp

Oprah Winfrey has been seen handing out supplies in Maui to those displaced by the devastating wildfires.

The talk show host visited the War Memorial Stadium in Maui on Thursday where she donated pillows, nappies and shampoo to people who have been forced to take shelter at the site.

“It’s a little overwhelming, you know. But I’m really so pleased to have so many people bringing what they can and doing what they can,” she told the BBC.

“I came earlier to see what people needed and then went shopping. Because often, you make donations of clothes or whatever and it’s not really what people need.

“So I actually went to Walmart and Costco and got pillows, diapers, sheets, pillowcases.”

Before and after satellite images show scale of ferocious Hawaii wildfires

Friday 11 August 2023 09:35 , Ariana Baio

Hawaii governor says 1,000 people still missing

Friday 11 August 2023 09:15 , Rachel Sharp

Around 1,000 people are still missing in the wildfires which have ravaged the Hawaiian island of Maui.

Hawaii Governor Josh Green revealed on Thursday evening that hundreds are still unaccounted for, as he warned that the Aloha State is headed for its deadliest disaster in state history.

Those unaccounted for are not presumed dead, he said, but have been left without communications and so their safety is unclear.

“Here’s the challenge: there’s no power, no internet, no phone, no radio. You compound some of that. So when we’re speaking to our officers, we need them to get a sat phone,” he said.

“There’s around 1,000 missing. It doesn’t mean that many have passed - I’m not saying that at all - but because we can’t contact them we can’t know.”

The governor admitted that “we don’t know” the true death toll.

Death toll climbs to 55

Friday 11 August 2023 08:54 , Rachel Sharp

The death toll from the devastating wildfires on the island of Maui, Hawaii, has now climbed to 55 – as officials warned that the loss of life is expected to rise further.

On Wednesday, Lahaina, Pulehu and Upcountry fire departments said that 36 people had died as a result of the fires.

Another 17 fatalities were confirmed at around midday on Thursday, taking the toll to 53 victims.

By Thursday night, another two people had been found dead taking the death toll to 55, Maui County confirmed.

The identity of the victims remains unknown.

Maui wildfires map: Where are the Hawaii fires?

Friday 11 August 2023 08:30 , Maroosha Muzaffar

Thousands of residents in Hawaii have been racing to escape their homes as deadly wildfires swept across the island of Maui, killing at least 53 people in one of the worst US wildfires in recent years.

Read the full piece here:

Maui wildfires map: Where are the Hawaii fires?

Search for bodies continues as officials call for patience

Friday 11 August 2023 08:07 , Holly Evans

Authorities in Maui are still trying to locate and identify people who died in Lahaina when a wildfire raced through the historic town.

Maui Mayor Richard Bissen told a news conference: “People whose homes are not damaged 0 you can come home as soon as we have recovered those who have perished. Please allow us to complete this process.”

Meanwhile Maui Police Chief John Pelletier asked for patience, prayers and perseverance, adding that his officers are trained to catch “bad guys” and not to pull bodies from buildings.

Search and rescue teams from California and Washington state, which are trained in disaster skills including using dogs to find human remains, have been deployed to Maui to assist with the process, officials said.

How did the Hawaii wildfires start?

Friday 11 August 2023 08:00 , Maroosha Muzaffar

Wildfires have sparked a frenzy of questions about how disasters, like this, can be prevented in the future.

Here’s everything we know about how the Hawaii wildfires started:

How did the Hawaii wildfires start?

Lahaina survivors say they didn’t hear Hawaii’s famous warning sirens

Friday 11 August 2023 07:47 , Holly Evans

Maui residents who made desperate escapes from flames, some on foot, have asked why Hawaii’s famous emergency warning system didn’t alert them as fires raced toward their homes, in interviews at evacuation centers onThursday.Hawaii emergency management records show no indication that the warning sirens were triggered before a devastating wildfire killed at least 53 people and wiped out a historic town, officials confirmed.

There are around 400 sirens positioned around the islands, with Hawaii boasting the largest integrated outdoor all-hazard public safety warning system in the world.

Many of Lahaina’s survivors however said they didn’t hear any sirens and only realised they were in danger when they saw the flames. Thomas Leonard, a 70-year-old retired mailman from Lahaina, didn’t know about the fire until he smelled smoke. As power and mobile phone services had gone out, he was left with no real-time information about the danger.

He tried to leave in his Jeep, but had to abandon the vehicle and run to the shore when cars nearby began exploding. He hid behind a sea wall for hours, the wind blowing hot ash and cinders over him.Firefighters eventually arrived and escorted Leonard and other survivors through the flames to safety.

Rainbow appears over Maui on Thursday morning

Friday 11 August 2023 07:00 , Ariana Baio

Hurricane Dora is fuelling Hawaii wildfires. Here’s how

Friday 11 August 2023 06:45 , Maroosha Muzaffar

The wildfires in Hawaii damaging buildings and leading to evacuations are spurred on by heavy winds coming from Hurricane Dora off the islands’ coast.

The storm was moving west across the Pacific Ocean hundreds of miles south of Hawaii on Wednesday.

To the west of Maui, residents scarpered into the ocean to avoid the fires and smoke. County officials said they were rescued by the US Coast Guard.

Winds reached up to 45 miles an hour, with gusts of up to 60 mph, according to the National Weather Service. The agency told residents on social media to secure their property and to prepare for lost power and travel disruptions.

Hurricane Dora is fuelling Hawaii wildfires. Here’s how

Burned out cars sit after a wildfire raged through Lahaina, Hawaii

Friday 11 August 2023 06:30 , Maroosha Muzaffar

United Airlines only operating flights out of Maui to assist in evacuations

Friday 11 August 2023 06:00 , Ariana Baio

United Airlines said they have removed inbound flights to Kahului Airport to assist in evacuating visitors as the island battles wildfires.

The airlines said in a statement that they are monitoring the situation in Hawaii “closely” and “emphasising safety” of their employees in Maui, according to NBC News.

“We’ve canceled today’s inbound flights to Kahului Airport so our planes can fly empty to Maui and be used as passenger flights back to the mainland,” United said.

The airline is also offering refunds to passengers who want to cancel their flights.

Hawaii fires: Lahaina’s 150-year-old banyan tree hit by wildfire

Friday 11 August 2023 05:41 , Maroosha Muzaffar

For generations, the banyan tree along Lahaina town’s historic Front Street served as a gathering place, its leafy branches unfurling majestically to give shade from the Hawaiian sun. By most accounts, the sprawling tree was the heart of the oceanside community — towering more than 60 feet (18 meters) and anchored by multiple trunks that span nearly an acre.

Like the town itself, its very survival is now in question, its limbs scorched by a devastating fire that has wiped away generations of history.

For 150 years, the colossal tree-shaded community events, including art fairs. It shaded townsfolk and tourists alike from the Hawaiian sun, befitting for a place once called “Lele,” the Hawaiian word for “relentless sun.”

Ring by ring, the tree has captured history.

Lahaina’s beloved 150-year-old banyan tree hit by wildfire

Hawaii wildfires are 'like apocalypse', says local who was burnt driving through blaze

Friday 11 August 2023 05:30 , Maroosha Muzaffar

Collin Morikawa has roots in Lahaina. He’s pledging $1,000 per birdie for Hawaii fires relief

Friday 11 August 2023 05:19 , Maroosha Muzaffar

Collin Morikawa is pledging $1,000 for every birdie he makes the next three PGA Tour events to help with relief for the deadly wildfires in Hawaii. For him, it’s personal.

His grandparents were born in Lahaina, the historic town on Maui where Front Street and all its restaurants and shops have been obliterated by the wind-swept fires that have claimed at least 36 lives. He still has relatives on Maui, though most have moved to Oahu.

“I think they’re all right, but just to hear ... woke up this morning, just checking the news, and to see how many people have passed away from that, yeah. I’m at a loss for words,” Morikawa said.

Morikawa, who won the PGA Championship and the British Open within two years after graduating from California-Berkeley, began his bid Thursday with six birdies in his opening round of 65 in the FedEx St. Jude Championship.

He posted his plans on Instagram on Thursday morning, and by the end of the day had decided to send the money raised to Maui United Way and World Central Kitchen to help survivors on Maui and elsewhere in Hawaii.

Collin Morikawa pledges $1,000 per birdie for Hawaii fires relief

ICYMI: Maui locals flee into ocean to escape wildfire

Friday 11 August 2023 04:30 , Maroosha Muzaffar

WATCH: Biden announces major disaster in Hawaii

Friday 11 August 2023 04:00 , Ariana Baio

Aerial footage shows historic town of Lahaina destroyed by blaze

Friday 11 August 2023 02:30 , Ariana Baio

ICYMI: President Biden issues major disaster declaration as wildfires burn in Hawaii

Friday 11 August 2023 01:50 , Ariana Baio

President Joe Biden declared the wildfire disaster in Hawaii to be a major disaster, allowing for the state to use federal funding in recovery efforts.

On Thursday, Mr Biden issued the declaration after 36 people died and thousands of others were evacuated as a result of the raging wildfires that burned through several areas of Maui, Hawaii and Ohau.

Ariana Baio reports:

President Biden issues major disaster declaration as wildfires burn in Hawaii

Oahu remains open to tourists, Hawaii tourism official confirms

Friday 11 August 2023 01:20 , Ariana Baio

Oahu is still open to tourists, a Hawaii tourism official has said as travellers rush to leave amidst devastating wildfires in western Maui.

“It is west Maui that is devastated. What travellers are doing now that we’re understanding is they are changing their vacation plans. They’re going to Oahu. They’re going to Hawaii Island,” James Kunane Tokioka, the state’s business, economic development and tourism director, told CNN.

“We have shared with our hotel partners to make sure that we give them the best rates available. We’re trying to accommodate people. Some people have saved their whole life to come to Hawaii and it would be a shame if they had to go straight back to their homes on the mainland,” he added.

Meanwhile, more than 11,000 travellers were evacuated from Maui, Ed Sniffen of the Hawaii Department of Transportation said late on Wednesday.

Hawaii officials say 53 people have died in fires

Friday 11 August 2023 01:05 , Abe Asher

Maui County officials on Thursday evening said that at least 53 people have died in the Lahaina fires as the death toll from the emergency continues to increase.

In addition to the 53 people who have lost their lives in the fire, dozens more are injured and recieving care while many others have lost their homes or are separated from loved ones. More than 1,000 structures have been burned in the flames.

There has not any appreciable change in the status of the fires on Thursday evening, and Gov Josh Green told the Associated Press that the death toll is expected to continue to rise in the coming days as search and rescue efforts continue.

Flags at half-staff in Hononlulu

Thursday 10 August 2023 23:20 , Ariana Baio

Hawaii’s state capital, Honolulu will fly flags at half-staff to honor the lives lost in the wildfires, governor Josh Green ordered.

At least 36 people were killed and dozens of others injured in the ragging wildfires that tore through multiple islands this past week.

Where are the Hawaii fires?

Thursday 10 August 2023 22:45 , Ariana Baio

Voices: I saw houses being washed away in Alaska. Stop the victim blaming

Thursday 10 August 2023 22:00 , Ariana Baio

“In Maui, hurricane-fueled fires have resulted in dozens of deaths, people missing, and communities decimated. We should avoid shaming and guilt-tripping people about their choices regarding where they live.”

Summer Koester writes:

I saw houses being washed away in Alaska. Stop the victim blaming

Hawaiian Airlines offering $19 flights from Maui to Honolulu

Thursday 10 August 2023 21:30 , Ariana Baio

In assisting evacuation efforts, Hawaiian Airlines said it would offer seats on a flight from Maui to Honolulu for $19 on Friday.

The airline wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter, that they were adding additional flights to help bring people out of Maui.

“Seats remain available today through Friday for $19 to facilitate urgent travel from Maui to Honolulu,” Hawaiian Airlines wrote.

Unclear how much of Maui has been burned

Thursday 10 August 2023 21:10 , Ariana Baio

Hawaii officials gathered on Thursday to begin assessing the damage and death toll in Maui after wildfires raged through the islands this past week.

Lieutenant governor Sylvia Luke said it was unclear how much has been lost in areas beyond the town of Lahaina, which was hit hard, according to The New York Times.

Maui resident describes sudden evacuation after wildfire spread

Thursday 10 August 2023 20:45 , Ariana Baio

A resident of Maui, Hawaii described the hasty evacuation he made after uncontrollable wildfires spread on Tuesday evening.

In an interview with CNN, Jeff Melichar said he was out on a walk on Tuesday when he saw the fire “rapidly approaching” his neighbourhood.

"We had to run back through the neighborhood because we were getting overwhelmed with smoke and embers,” Mr Melichar said.

Residents did not have much time to gather their belongings due to the fire, which was spreading quickly because of strong winds.

“We ran back to the house and had another 10 or 15 minutes before we knew we were going to be overtaken. And at that point, we had to just jump in the car.”

He added: "It was rather traumatic."

How to help victims of Hawaii wildfires

Thursday 10 August 2023 20:19 , Ariana Baio

Thousands of Hawaii citizens have been displaced following wildfires that devastated the historic town of Lahaina in Maui.

Multiple neighbourhoods were burned as the fires were fueled by heavy winds blowing from Hurricane Dora, resulting in many being told to evacuate, with some Hawaii residents taking refuge in the ocean to avoid the flames. As of 10 August, at least 36 people have died and 11,000 have been evacuated as a result of the wildfires.

Brittany Miller reports:

How to help victims of Hawaii wildfires

New aerial images show destruction of Lahaina

Thursday 10 August 2023 19:55 , Ariana Baio

Aerial images taken above the historic town of Lahaina on Maui, Hawaii show the aftermath of the wildfires that burned throughout the town.

Buildings, grass and trees were covered in black soot and ash on Thursday morning – showing how destructive the fires were.

President Biden offers ‘prayers’ and ‘assets’ to Hawaii

Thursday 10 August 2023 19:30 , Ariana Baio

In remarks given on Thursday, President Joe Biden said he had spoken with Hawaii governor Josh Green where he offered all available resources to the state.

Mr Biden said he had a “long” conversation with Mr Green to ensure Hawaii had all federal and state resources it needed in recovery.

“We offer our prayers, not just our prayers but every asset we have will be available,” Mr Biden said.

The President has also ordered the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to “streamline” all requests.

Mr Biden appointed Maona Ngwira to coordinate federal recovery operations.

Wildfires in Hawaii could be the state’s worst natural disaster in decades

Thursday 10 August 2023 19:00 , Ariana Baio

Wildfires raging out of control in Hawaii have claimed at least 36 lives, caused large numbers of burn and smoke inhalation injuries, knocked out 911 and cell services, forced residents to escape into the ocean, and destroyed hundreds of homes, officials say.

Bevan Hurley reports:

Hawaii wildfires could be state’s worst natural disaster in decades

President Biden issues ‘major disaster’ declaration for Hawaii

Thursday 10 August 2023 18:45 , Ariana Baio

President Joe Biden declared the wildfire disaster in Hawaii to be a major disaster on Thursday, allowing for federal funding to become available to the state.

The funding can now be used for individuals to repair their homes or seek loans and for business owners to recover from the disaster.

“Federal funding also is available to state and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for debris removal and emergency protective measures in Maui County, and assistance for emergency protective measures for Hawaii County,” the handout says.

Federal coordinating officer of FEMA Maona Ngwira has been appointed to coordinate Federal recovery operations in the affected areas.

Average area burned in Hawaii has increased 400 per cent in last century

Thursday 10 August 2023 18:20 , Ariana Baio

Though the islands of Hawaii are no stranger to some wildfires, the number of fires has increased exponentially over the past century due to human activity and an increase in invasive, flammable grasses, according to the Hawaii Wildfire Management Organization (HWMO).

“Nonnative grasslands and shrublands now cover nearly one quarter of Hawaii’s total land area and, together with a warming, drying climate and year round fire season, greatly increase the incidence of larger fires,” the HWMO wrote in a factsheet.

The HWMO estimates the average number of area burned per year in Hawaii has increased 400 per cent over the past century.

How to help the people of Maui

Thursday 10 August 2023 18:00 , Ariana Baio

Wildfires in Maui, Hawaii have devastated over 270 structures and many resident’s homes.

As firefighters work to contain the fires and conduct recovery efforts, people are being asked to donate to the Hawai’i Community Foundation (HCF) to assist in the costly recovery.

The fund, called the Maui Strong Fund, was created to provide resources for disaster preparedness, response and recovery. It is currently being used to support the communities affected by the wildfires.

“HCF will prioritize nonprofit organizations that are supporting community-based rapid response and recovery efforts. Funding will support evolving needs, including shelter, food, financial assistance, and other services as identified by our partners doing critical work on Maui,” a description of the fund reads.

To donate to the Hawai’i Community Fund and support Maui, click here.

Maui Fire Department issues safety protocols during cleanup

Thursday 10 August 2023 17:45 , Ariana Baio

The Maui Fire Department posted a safety guide for residents of Hawaii to follow as they clean up the debris left behind from the devastating wildfires.

Tips include wearing a hard hat, eye protection, hearing protection, gloves, long pants, a long shirt and steel-toed boots to protect parts of the body.

They also suggested wearing an N95 face mask or a respirator that provides more protection to prevent smoke and debris inhalation.

“Stay hydrated and avoid working in the hottest part of the day,” the Maui Fire Department wrote.

Most of Maui experiencing abnormal to severe levels of drought

Thursday 10 August 2023 17:19 , Ariana Baio

Nearly all of Maui is in a level one or level two drought intensity, according to the US Drought Monitor.

Approximately 16 per cent of the island was in “severe drought” making the area most susceptible to wildfires due to the dry vegetation.

This is an increase from the 5 per cent of Maui that experienced severe levels of drought last week.

What is causing the fires?

Thursday 10 August 2023 17:00 , Eleanor Noyce

The wildfires were whipped up by Hurricane Dora, a category 4 storm passing about 500 miles (804 kms) south of the Pacific Ocean archipelago, and a strong high pressure system to the north, the National Weather Service (NWS) said.

“These strong winds coupled with low humidity levels are producing dangerous fire weather conditions that will last through Wednesday afternoon,” the NWS said.

The climate crisis has created warmer, dryer conditions that are increasing the risk and extent of wildfires across the western United States, according to the Center for Climate and Energy Conditions.

Wildfires have wrought havoc for years across the North American continent, especially in the US Southwest and Canada. But blazes of this magnitude have rarely, if ever, been seen in Hawaii.

Barack Obama issues statement on Maui wildfires

Thursday 10 August 2023 16:40 , Ariana Baio

Over 14K customers without power

Thursday 10 August 2023 16:21 , Ariana Baio

Approximately 14,500 customers are without power in Maui, as of early Wednesday morning.

Hawaiian Electricity, the company that provides 95 per cent of Hawaii it’s power, asked customers in West Maui and Upcountry for “patience” as the wildfires rage on.

The company said customers should “plan for extended outages.”

The climate crisis will irrevocably change how we holiday: Here’s what the future of travel looks like

Thursday 10 August 2023 16:00 , Ariana Baio

Thousands of visitors in Hawaii are being forced to evacuate after raging wildfires took over parts of Maui.

Unprecedented extreme weather will soon become a norm according to climate scientists, what does this mean for the future of travel?

Benjamin Parker reports:

All change: The climate crisis will irrevocably alter how we holiday

Click here to read the full blog on The Independent's website