Key takeaways:
- 36 people dead and 271 structures damaged or destroyed due to wildfires fueled by strong winds and a severe drought
- Many residents were forced to flee into the ocean and await rescue
- Red Cross has set up shelters and is providing food, water, and other essential supplies
On Wednesday, crews continued to battle blazes in several places on the Hawaiian island of Maui, after a series of devastating wildfires swept through the area on Tuesday. The fires, fueled by strong winds linked to Hurricane Dora and a severe drought, left at least 36 people dead and 271 structures damaged or destroyed.
The fires took many residents by surprise, forcing some people to flee into the ocean and await rescue by the U.S. Coast Guard. Photos show rampant destruction left behind, with hundreds of buildings “burnt to the ground,” according to Maui Mayor Richard Bissen.
The town of Lahaina was particularly hard-hit, with dozens of people killed and many more injured. Fire officials were struggling to bring the flames under control as high winds continued Wednesday, spreading embers beyond containment.
Thousands of people were forced to flee their homes, and the Honolulu Civil Beat reported that many were still unable to return as of Wednesday. The Red Cross has set up shelters for those affected by the fires, and is providing food, water, and other essential supplies.
The cause of the fires is still under investigation, and officials are warning residents to be prepared for the possibility of more fires in the coming days.
Be First to Comment