The Hawaiian island of Maui has been engulfed in wildfires, leading to the deaths of at least 36 people and forcing thousands to flee their homes. The blazes, which are among the deadliest U.S. wildfires in recent years, swept across the island, destroying parts of a centuries-old town and leaving a trail of devastation.
The fire took the island by surprise, leaving burned-out cars on once busy streets and smoking piles of rubble where historic buildings had stood in Lahaina Town. The town, which dates back to the 1700s, has long been a popular tourist spot.
Among those affected was a family who recounted their harrowing escape from the flames. As they attempted to flee, downed utility poles and others fleeing in their cars slowed their progress. Officials warned that the death toll could rise, with the fires still burning and teams spreading out to search charred areas.
To support those affected, a GoFundMe campaign has been set up. Efforts are also being made to restore communication services and distribute water, while rescue teams are fanning out in the hopes of finding survivors. The Coast Guard has already rescued 14 people who had to jump into the water to escape the flames and smoke.
The fires were exacerbated by strong winds from Hurricane Dora, with experts citing climate change as a factor increasing the likelihood of such extreme weather events. As the island begins the long process of recovery, this tragic incident serves as a stark reminder of the critical need for effective disaster preparedness and response strategies.