Hawaii wildfire: Devastation strikes Maui Island with 36 dead, thousands evacuated

Kahului, August 10: A devastating wildfire, fueled by winds from a distant hurricane, has left a trail of destruction in the resort city of Lahaina on Hawaii's Maui island. At least 36 people have lost their lives, and multiple neighborhoods have been reduced to ashes, according to a statement by Maui County on Wednesday.

The catastrophe unfolded as a powerful wave of fire swept through Lahaina during high tide, leaving behind widespread devastation. The western side of the island was nearly cut off, with only one highway accessible, and thousands had to evacuate. A girl was seen being carried away by ocean currents while playing near the waterfront, only to be saved by a brave individual who braved the waves to reach her.

The conflagration has inflicted extensive structural damage, leaving many edifices reduced "to the ground," Mayor Bissen lamented. Amidst the wreckage, the foremost objective for officials and first responders is the preservation of life. While salvage operations for property remain secondary, valiant efforts are underway on both fronts. The tireless dedication of the fire departments and rescue teams is evident as they toil in 24-hour shifts to wrest control over the raging blaze.

Mason Jarvi, a resident of Lahaina, described the scene as apocalyptic, with the entire area burnt to a crisp. The North Devon Council shared a video on Twitter showing the destruction and issued a warning about volatile sea conditions.

The disaster occurred in the midst of high tide, underscoring the danger that high-risk activities like tombstoning pose in volatile coastal conditions. The RNLI acted quickly to tend to minor injuries and rescue those affected. The volatile sea conditions were exacerbated by the hurricane's winds, fanning the flames across the island.

The Maui airport was fully operational, with evacuation efforts complicated by power outages and disrupted communication. The situation echoed other wildfires across the globe this summer, prompting concern about climate change's role in increasing the frequency and intensity of such events. President Joe Biden expressed condolences and ordered federal assistance to help with the response.

Concurrently, Hawaiian Electric crews have rallied their efforts to reinstate power for affected communities in West Maui and Upcountry. Acknowledging the gravity of the situation, spokesperson Shayna Decken offered a heartfelt statement, saying, "Our collective efforts are dedicated to aiding and supporting the distressed communities in Maui, grappling with power outages, rampant wildfires, and the relentless havoc wreaked by high winds." Decken underscored that the prime focus is the safety of residents, customers, and the workforce, while also expediting the restoration of power in accessible areas.

The aftermath of the disaster has left approximately 12,400 customers without electricity in West Maui. As crews meticulously assess the damage inflicted by the wildfire, strenuous efforts are being directed toward rectifying numerous toppled utility poles and severed power lines scattered throughout various regions. The challenge ahead is colossal, as Hawaii faces the daunting task of rebuilding, recovering, and mourning the lives lost to this devastating blaze.

Also Read: UK: Girl swept away by ocean currents while playing with friends near waterfront in Devon

- ANI

Join Whatsapp Channel