The picturesque resort town of Lahaina on Maui is grappling with a massive tragedy, as wildfires have claimed at least 55 lives with the number expected to climb.
The fires, described as the most catastrophic natural disaster in Hawaii’s history by Governor Josh Green (D), have laid waste to much of Lahaina, rendering thousands homeless and demolishing close to 1,000 structures, according to a Reuters report.
Governor Green, addressing the severity of the situation at a press conference stated, “It’s going to take many years to rebuild Lahaina.”
However, he also offered hope by adding, “It will be a new Lahaina that Maui builds in its own image with its own values.”
Given that Lahaina attracts around 2 million tourists every year, accounting for approximately 80% of the island’s visitors, the impact on tourism is likely to be profound.
The origins of the fire trace back to the outskirts of Lahaina, quickly consuming the historic city which once served as the capital of the Hawaiian Kingdom.
Dry conditions combined with accumulated fuel and wind gusts reaching speeds of 60 mph (100 kph) made for an explosive combination, Reuters notes.
Two other major fires also wreaked havoc on Maui, and are yet to be contained.
Assistance is pouring in from all quarters as search and rescue operations continue and firefighters battle the smaller blazes.
Officials have confirmed the arrival of cadaver dogs from states like California and Washington to support the ongoing efforts.
Maui Police Chief John Pelletier solemnly reminded everyone, “Understand this: Lahaina town is hallowed, sacred ground right now,” emphasizing the gravity of the situation and the mission to recover remains.
The wildfires have displaced thousands, with both locals and tourists fleeing the inferno.
Many sought refuge within Maui, others on the nearby island of Oahu.
A significant number of tourists found themselves camping at the Kahului Airport, eager to return home.
In drawing a comparison to the scale of this disaster, Governor Green pointed to the 1960 tsunami, which resulted in 61 fatalities on the Big Island of Hawaii, a year after Hawaii’s U.S. statehood.
Distressingly, some residents and visitors resorted to jumping into the Pacific Ocean to escape the flames’ fury.
