Deadly wildfires in Hawaii this week were fanned by strong winds from Hurricane Dora, destroying numerous structures and sending people fleeing into the ocean.
Residents and visitors in the Upcountry and Lahaina areas of West Maui were forced to evacuate, with some escaping the smoke and flames by running into the ocean. Maui County officials said Tuesday that the U.S. Coast Guard rescued those people, and transported them to “safe areas.”
Maui County Mayor Richard T. Bissen issued an emergency proclamation on Tuesday, and multiple evacuation orders were in place. Maui County officials alerted residents on Tuesday that 911 service was not available in West Maui, and advised residents to call the Lahaina Police Department directly for emergencies.
On Wednesday, Maui County confirmed at least 36 fatalities.
Videos shared by Instagram user @lei_dubzz show the progression of the fire in Lahaina overnight Tuesday into Wednesday.
In the daylight Wednesday, whole blocks appear burned to the ground. Some structures were still on fire as most others were smoking piles of rubble.
Fire officials had warned that strong, unpredictable winds were spreading fire farther than people might think.
“The fire can be a mile or more from your house, but in a minute or two, it can be at your house,” Maui Fire Assistant Chief Jeff Giesea said in a statement. “Burning airborne materials can light fires a great distance away from the main body of fire.”
Acting Gov. Sylvia Luke, acting on behalf of Gov. Josh Green, M.D., issued an emergency proclamation for Maui and Hawaiʻi Counties on Tuesday.
“We are closely following the wildfires caused by the strong winds of Hurricane Dora,” said Lt. Gov. Luke. “The safety of our residents is paramount, and this emergency proclamation will activate the Hawaiʻi National Guard to support emergency responders in the impacted communities.”
Officials said Gov. Green has been “fully briefed” on Hurricane Dora and the fires. “Lieutenant Governor Luke has my full support,” Green said. “My thoughts are with the residents and businesses affected by Hurricane Dora.”
Maui County said the cause of the fires is under investigation.
#hawaii #maui #wildfires
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