(Maui, U.S.) – Maui has been devastated by a deadly wildfire, becoming the deadliest U.S. wildfire in a century. The death toll has climbed to 96, surpassing the tragic 2018 Camp fire that destroyed the Northern California town of Paradise. Search efforts are ramping up as teams scour the ash and rubble for human remains, with the number of dead expected to rise.
Authorities estimate that over 2,700 structures were destroyed in Lahaina, causing an estimated damage of $5.6 billion. As a result, an estimated 1,100 residents are now in shelters, while 500 hotel rooms have been made available for those displaced by the fires. Additional lodging will be provided to first responders.
The cause of the fire and how it could have been prevented will be thoroughly investigated, according to Governor Josh Green. A comprehensive review has been ordered to determine any measures that could have averted the disaster and prevent such a tragic loss of life.
Search crews are diligently combing through the disaster zone, going street by street and block by block in their search for survivors. These efforts will only become faster and more efficient with the arrival of additional search-and-rescue teams, including a team from the Los Angeles County Fire Department. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has deployed 400 agents to assist in the search as well.
Describing the scene in Lahaina as apocalyptic, FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell noted that search teams have only covered about 3% of the targeted area. Many structures remain partially standing, posing challenges to search efforts. Engineers are working with search crews to assess building stability.
The Lahaina fire, which was one of several that broke out on Maui last week, is now 85% contained, according to Maui County officials. The fire initially erupted on early Tuesday but was believed to be contained. However, winds whipped up by Hurricane Dora caused the blaze to spread rapidly, devastating communities on West Maui.
There are reports of a lack of sirens being activated ahead of the fire, though other systems were used to alert residents, including messages broadcasted to television stations, radios, and cellphones. However, with power outages and disrupted communication systems, many residents reported not receiving any alerts.
The devastation caused by this deadly wildfire in Maui serves as a grim reminder of the destructive power of nature and the importance of effective emergency response measures. The investigation into the cause of the fire and the search for survivors and victims will continue, as the community comes to terms with this tragic event.
