Key takeaways:
- Strong winds from Hurricane Dora caused multiple wildfires on Maui
- Witnesses described an “apocalyptic scene” in Lahaina, with people jumping into the harbor to escape the flames
- The National Weather Service said Hurricane Dora was partly to blame for the strong winds, and firefighters are struggling to reach some areas cut off by downed trees and power lines
The Hawaiian island of Maui was hit by a series of wildfires on Tuesday night, caused by strong winds from Hurricane Dora. The fires burned multiple structures, forced evacuations, and caused power outages in several communities.
In the town of Lahaina, the situation was particularly dire, with people jumping into the harbor to escape the flames. Witnesses described an “apocalyptic scene” with thick black smoke blowing towards the water.
The Coast Guard confirmed that it had rescued a dozen people and rescue operations were ongoing. Fire crews on Maui were battling multiple blazes concentrated in two areas: the popular tourist destination of West Maui and an area near the town of Kahului.
The National Weather Service said Hurricane Dora was partly to blame for the strong winds that knocked out power and grounded firefighting helicopters. The hurricane was passing to the south of the island chain at a safe distance of 500 miles.
The fires have caused significant damage, and authorities are continuing to assess the situation. Firefighters are struggling to reach some areas that have been cut off by downed trees and power lines.
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