▲ Lahaina, Maui Island, Hawaii, devastated by fire Photo: Yonhap News
Maui is the second largest island in the Hawaiian Islands and is named after a hero from Polynesian mythology.
On the 8th, at around 0:20 am, the first forest fire was reported in the Kula region, in the central part of the island, and about 6 hours later, an additional forest fire was confirmed near the village of Lahaina on the western beach.
The flames, which had been gradually suppressed by the fire department’s extinguishing efforts, spread again as strong winds raged under the influence of the hurricane, and in an instant struck the seaside town, leading to massive loss of life.
According to the tally of the Maui administrative authorities, it is known that a total of 53 people have died from this wildfire by 1:00 pm (local time) on the 10th.
It is estimated that about 1,700 buildings were destroyed, and about 80% of Lahaina Village was confirmed to have been damaged.
However, the actual damage is expected to increase as the wildfire continues and an accurate damage investigation has not yet been conducted.
Hawaii Governor Josh Green said in an interview with CNN that day, “I fear that the death toll will be much higher this time,” referring to the fact that 61 people died in the 1960 tsunami.
Maui’s administrative authorities explained that the current Maui region’s wildfire evolution rate is 80%.
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2023-08-11 01:19:33
