Photo: Courtesy of Zeke Kalua of Maui County
At least 36 people have died in the devastating wildfires in Maui, as firefighters and other first responders continue to try to contain the fires and search for survivors. Much of Lahaina town was destroyed, with officials saying at least 271 structures were damaged or destroyed. “These past few days the resolve of our families, businesses and visitors have been tested like never before in our lifetime,” Maui County Mayor Richard Bissen said in a video he posted Wednesday night. “With lives lost and properties decimated, we are grieving with each other during this inconsolable time.”
We will continue to update this post with the latest developments on the ongoing Hawai‘i wildfires.
Latest Developments
At least 36 People Confirmed Killed in Wildfires
The fires decimated Maui communities, including historic Lahaina town, and authorities say the number of deaths could rise. (Hawai‘i News Now)
Here’s How To Help Those Impacted By the Fires
Here are vetted organizations you can donate to. (Hawai‘i News Now)
Dramatic new ground-level footage of devastation in Lahaina
Some of the town’s most iconic and historic landmarks all burned down — from the Pioneer Inn to Lahaina’s famous banyan tree. (Hawai‘i News Now)
Thousands of Visitors to Be Evacuated
Visitors who cannot find hotel rooms will be put up at the Hawai‘i Convention Center, which will shelter both visitors and displaced Maui residents. Acting Gov. Sylvia Luke signed an emergency proclamation to discourage visitors from going to Maui right now. (Hawai‘i News Now)
Fires Ravage Historic Sites in Lahaina
Fire blazed through Lahaina’s historic Waiola Church as well as the Lahaina Hongwanji Mission. (The Maui News)
Blocks of Historic Maui Destroyed by Wildfires
Historic buildings along Lahaina’s popular Front Street were charred and flattened. Said Richard Olsten, a helicopter pilot for a tour company who flew over the fire site: “It’s horrifying. I’ve flown here 52 years and I’ve never seen anything come close to that. We had tears in our eyes, the other pilots on board and the mechanics and me.” (KITV)
PHOTOS: A Look at the Devastation on Maui
Scenes from the areas affected by the fires. (Hawai‘i News Now)
Sen. Brian Schatz Says Lahaina Town Almost Entirely Burned Down
“Firefighters are still trying to get the fires under control, and our first responders are in search and rescue mode.” (Twitter)
Joe Biden Initiates Federal Response to Assist Hawai‘i
Here’s the official statement from President Biden on the wildfires in Hawai‘i. (whitehouse.gov)
Lahaina Is ‘Like a War Zone,’ Say West Maui Evacuees
Hundreds of residents and tourists took shelter at Maui High School. Donations of food, water, toiletries and bedding have been rolling in but tourists and residents are still processing what happened. (Civil Beat)
Hawaiian Electric Asks for Continued Patience on Power Restorations on Maui
Crews are working to respond to more than 30 spans of downed power lines in Upcountry while approximately 12,400 West Maui customers remain offline. Hawaiian Electric advises everyone to stay at least 30 feet from downed power lines, as they may be energized and dangerous. (Hawaiian Electric)
How Hurricane Dora Fanned the Wildfires (Video)
A meteorologist explains how the winds led to overnight devastation on Maui and are continuing to cause problems. (weather.com)
SEE ALSO: 5 Tips to Get Your Home Ready for a Busy Hurricane Season in Hawai‘i
How to Stay Safe During Hawai‘i Wildfires
Hawaii Wildfires ─ Red Cross Helping as Fires Force Thousands to Evacuate
The American Red Cross of Hawai‘i has opened shelters on Hawai‘i Island and Maui. Find out what you should bring to a shelter and where to find one. (Red Cross)
Lung Association Offers Tips to Protect Lung Health During Hawaii Fires
Breathing in wildfire smoke can lead to chronic health issues. Here’s how to protect your lungs when a wildfire breaks out near your home. (American Lung Association)
Wildfire Smoke and Animals
The American Veterinary Medical Association shares the symptoms to look out for in your animals that indicate they need medical attention for smoke inhalation, plus tips to keep them safe. (American Veterinary Medical Association)
Wildfire Evacuation Checklist
Use this checklist to prepare and practice wildfire evacuation plans. (U.S. Fire Administration)
Be Prepared If A Wildfire Occurs
If a wildfire is approaching your neighborhood, here’s how to prepare to evacuate and mitigate damage to your home. And in the scenario where you can’t evacuate in time, here’s what you should do. (U.S. Forest Service)
Wildfire & Drought Lookout!
This flyer sums up practical wildfire prevention and preparedness tips. (Hawai‘i Wildfire Management Organization)
Ready, Set, Go! Hawaii: Your Personal Wildland Fire Action Guide
This booklet covers how to prevent wildfires and protect your home, and includes planning guides and checklists to ensure you and your ‘ohana have everything you need to stay safe. (Hawai‘i Wildfire Management Organization)
After the Fire
This guide details steps for recovery after a fire has swept through your home. (U.S. Fire Administration)
Leave A Comment