More than 14,000 people are displaced, thousands of Lahaina residents are left homeless, and at least 1,000 buildings have turned to ash due to the Maui wildfires|@CountyofMaui|Twitter
The Maui wildfires have become one of the worst natural disasters in Hawaii’s history. The blazes have claimed 55 lives and burned the town of Lahaina to the ground. Government officials fear the death toll may rise.
As of Thursday afternoon, four major fires were still burning in Maui, along with smaller fires.
Maui County Police Chief John Pelletier requested people to wait before returning to the island’s west side since there is no power or water supply.
He also urged people to wait, out of respect, until all bodies are recovered.
Catastrophic damages
More than 14,000 people are displaced, thousands of Lahaina residents are left homeless, and at least 1,000 buildings have turned to ash due to the wildfires.
The largest banyan tree in the country is charred.
Hawaii Governor Josh Green said, “It will take time to know the full extent, but it will be in the billions of dollars, without a doubt,” for the communities to rebuild. “Climate change is here. And I think that’s what we’re seeing,” he added.
The island of Maui heavily relies on tourism, and Lahaina is a major destination for travelers.
President Joe Biden has declared the wildfire a “major disaster” and ordered federal aid, says the White House.