Maui Wildfire Death Toll Expected to Rise as Search Efforts Continue

CNN: Death Toll Rises in Maui Wildfire as Search Efforts Continue

The death toll from the devastating Maui wildfire in Hawaii continues to rise, with authorities warning that the number of fatalities could double in the coming days. As of now, at least 99 people have been confirmed dead, making it the deadliest wildfire in the US in over a century.

Hawaii Governor Josh Green expressed his grief over the tragedy, describing it as a “tragedy beyond tragedies.” The fires, which started last week, have swept through parts of the island, particularly the hard-hit Lahaina area in western Maui.

Search and rescue teams, along with cadaver dogs, are working tirelessly to search the burn area, but only a quarter of it has been covered so far. Communication gaps have made it difficult to determine the exact number of people unaccounted for, as many had to flee without their phones, which were incinerated in the fires.

Maui Police Chief John Pelletier announced that the names of the deceased, whose families have been notified, will be released on Tuesday. Most of the victims were found in the open, in cars, or in the water.

Efforts to search the remaining burn area are expected to intensify, with Pelletier hoping to cover 85% to 90% of the zone by the weekend. Currently, 20 teams, including cadaver dogs, are involved in the search and rescue operation.

The wildfires have caused extensive damage, destroying or damaging over 2,200 structures, with residential properties accounting for 86% of the total. Thousands of people have been displaced, but efforts are underway to provide temporary housing. More than 400 hotel rooms and 1,400 Airbnb units will be available for those affected.

Power and communication services have also been severely impacted, but Hawaiian Electric has restored power to approximately 80% of its customers on Maui. However, the company is facing a lawsuit alleging that blown-over power lines contributed to the spread of the fire.

The US Coast Guard has shifted its focus from search and rescue to containing potentially hazardous materials in the ocean. Sonar technology and a boom have been deployed to mitigate the environmental impact of the fires.

In response to the disaster, President Joe Biden has pledged to visit Hawaii with the first lady and provide all necessary resources for recovery and rebuilding efforts. However, some residents have expressed frustration at the slow pace of aid.

As the search efforts continue, families of the victims are sharing their heartbreaking stories. Carole Hartley and her partner, Charles Paxton, were separated while trying to evacuate. Paxton organized a search for Hartley but tragically, her remains were found on their property. Hartley was described as a free spirit who always looked for the good in people.

Another victim, Franklin “Frankie” Trejos, died while attempting to escape the fire. His niece described him as a kind man, nature lover, and free spirit. Trejos and his roommate initially tried to save their property but eventually had to flee.

Reports have emerged that first responders encountered weak water pressure and dry fire hydrants during the firefighting operation. Firefighters have expressed their frustration, highlighting the lack of water in the hydrants and weak water pressure.

The attorney general of Hawaii will review the fire response, including reports of inadequate water supply and malfunctioning disaster alarms.

As the search and recovery efforts continue, the community mourns the loss of lives and the destruction of their homes and historic landmarks. The full extent of the tragedy is yet to be determined, but authorities are working tirelessly to bring closure to the affected families and provide support to those displaced by the wildfires.Maui Wildfire Death Toll Could Double, Authorities Say

With only a quarter of the Maui wildfire burn area searched, the death toll of what’s already the deadliest US wildfire in more than a century still could rise significantly, Hawaii authorities said Monday.

At least 99 people have been confirmed dead from the wildfires, and the number could double over the next 10 days, Hawaii Gov. Josh Green told CNN Monday.

“It is a tragedy beyond tragedies,” the governor said about the fires that started sweeping parts of the island last week.

Authorities on Tuesday are expected to begin releasing the names of the dead whose families have been notified, Maui Police Chief John Pelletier said in a Monday news conference.

Most of the people found dead had been out in the open, in cars or

What measures can the community of Maui take to mitigate the risks and protect themselves against future wildfires fueled by climate change

Discovered among the wreckage. Another family, the Andersons, lost their home and all their belongings in the fire. They were able to evacuate safely but are now facing the difficult task of rebuilding their lives.

The Maui wildfire has devastated the community, leaving many in shock and mourning the loss of loved ones and their homes. The road to recovery will be long and challenging, but the resilience and strength of the people of Maui will surely prevail.

Authorities are urging residents to stay updated on evacuation orders and to follow safety precautions as the fire continues to pose a threat. The cause of the fire is still under investigation.

The Maui wildfire serves as a tragic reminder of the destructive power of wildfires and the importance of preparedness and prevention measures. As climate change continues to fuel more frequent and intense wildfires, it is imperative that communities take steps to mitigate the risks and protect themselves against future disasters.