12-8-2023 (HAWAII) The death toll from wildfires in the U.S. state of Hawaii’s Maui has risen to 80, according to Maui County officials on Friday. Governor Josh Green had previously warned that the death toll would likely continue to rise as search and rescue operations continue. The wildfires, fueled by strong winds from Hurricane Dora, destroyed parts of Lahaina, a popular tourist spot on Maui Island.
The wildfires are the state’s deadliest natural disaster in decades, according to local media reports. The death toll was 67 earlier in the day, but it has since increased to 80 as more bodies were discovered.
The wildfires began on August 9 and have burned over 30,000 acres of land. Over 2,000 firefighters have been deployed to contain the fires, but strong winds and dry conditions have made their efforts difficult.
Hawaii Governor David Ige declared a state of emergency on August 10 and requested federal assistance to help combat the fires. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has approved the governor’s request for a Fire Management Assistance Grant to help cover the costs of fighting the wildfires.
The wildfires have forced thousands of residents and tourists to evacuate their homes and hotels. Some have taken refuge in shelters set up by the American Red Cross.
The cause of the wildfires is still under investigation, but officials have said that the strong winds from Hurricane Dora played a major role in spreading the fires. The hurricane, which was downgraded to a tropical storm on August 10, caused widespread damage in Hawaii, including power outages and flooding.
The wildfires in Hawaii serve as a stark reminder of the dangers of natural disasters and the importance of being prepared for them. Officials are urging residents and tourists to stay vigilant and to follow evacuation orders if necessary.
The wildfires are a tragedy for the people of Hawaii, and our thoughts are with those who have lost loved ones and those who have been affected by the fires.
