Lahaina, Hawaii – Hawaii’s governor, Josh Green, issued a warning that the death toll from the Maui wildfires may rise significantly as search crews continue to comb through the devastated neighborhoods. The fires, which blazed through the historic town of Lahaina, have already claimed the lives of at least 96 people, making it the deadliest fire in the U.S. in over a century. The cause of the fire is currently under investigation.
Governor Green indicated that search teams are prepared to uncover more tragic stories in the coming days. With cellphone service slowly being restored, the number of missing persons has dropped from over 2,000 to approximately 1,300. Searchers, accompanied by twenty cadaver dogs, are carefully making their way through the streets and blocks that have been reduced to ash.
However, the firefighting efforts have been hindered by a shortage of available water. Some state officials are blaming a recent ruling by an environmental court judge, which has limited the water supply for firefighters. This ruling is part of a larger conflict between environmentalists and private companies over the diversion of water from East Maui streams. The shortage of water has raised concerns among officials and has made it even more challenging to contain the wildfires.
As the recovery efforts continue, displaced residents are expected to be relocated to hotels. Governor Green announced that 500 hotel rooms have been made available for those affected by the fires, and an additional 500 rooms will be reserved for Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) workers assisting with the recovery. FEMA has also started providing $700 to displaced residents to cover the cost of essential supplies such as food, water, and medical aid.
The Biden administration is seeking an additional $12 billion for the government’s disaster relief fund to support recovery efforts. The fire in Lahaina, which destroyed nearly every building in the town, has been 85% contained, according to county officials. Another fire, known as the Upcountry fire, is 60% contained.
While the flames have retreated in some areas, authorities have warned about the presence of toxic byproducts, including in drinking water, due to the fire’s poisonous fumes. Many residents have lost their homes and have nowhere to return to. The Red Cross has provided shelter for 575 evacuees across five locations, including the War Memorial Gymnasium in Wailuku.
Amidst the destruction, media personality Oprah Winfrey visited the affected area and delivered personal hygiene products, towels, and water to those in need. Winfrey, who is a part-time Maui resident, emphasized the importance of long-term support for rebuilding efforts.
In addition to the challenges faced by firefighters, legal battles over water access have also emerged. A recent court order temporarily suspended water caps imposed by Judge Jeffrey Crabtree, who later faced criticism from the state attorney general’s office for the lack of water available for firefighting. The state has petitioned the Supreme Court to resolve the issue and ensure an adequate water supply.
The wildfires in Maui have caused immense devastation, with an estimated loss of $5.6 billion. As the recovery process continues, it is crucial to address the immediate needs of those affected and work towards long-term solutions for rebuilding the community.
Original Story at apnews.com – 2023-08-14 23:13:00
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