Deadly Maui Wildfires Leave Historic Town of Lahaina Devastated
LAHAINA, Hawaii (AP) — The wildfires that ravaged the historic town of Lahaina in Maui have become the deadliest in the U.S. in over a century, with a death toll of at least 96. Hawaii’s governor, Josh Green, has warned that the number of casualties could rise as search crews continue to comb through the neighborhoods where the flames spread at an alarming rate of a mile per minute. Firefighters have been struggling to contain the inferno, with some officials expressing concerns about a limited water supply.
Governor Green stated in a recorded interview with “CBS Mornings” that tragic stories are expected to emerge as search efforts progress. He estimated that 10 to 20 people could be found dead per day until the search is completed, which may take around 10 days. The number of missing individuals has dropped to approximately 1,300 as cellphone service is gradually being restored.
Search teams, including twenty cadaver dogs and numerous searchers, are working their way through the blocks that have been reduced to ash. They are currently going street by street, block by block, and will soon begin entering buildings, according to Jeff Hickman, the director of public affairs for the Hawaii Department of Defense.
The wildfires have also highlighted a water supply shortage for firefighters, which some state officials
What impact has the limited water supply had on efforts to combat the deadly wildfires in Lahaina?
Article: Historic Town of Lahaina Devastated by Deadly Maui Wildfires
The wildfires that swept through the picturesque town of Lahaina in Maui have now claimed the highest number of lives in the United States in over a century. The death toll currently stands at 96, but Governor Josh Green of Hawaii has warned that this number could rise as search crews continue to comb through the affected neighborhoods.
The speed at which the flames spread is truly astonishing, with reports indicating that the fire advanced at a rate of a mile per minute. Firefighters have been grappling to contain the inferno, with concerns being raised about the limited water supply available to combat the blaze.
In a recent interview with “CBS Mornings,” Governor Green expressed his belief that tragic stories will emerge as search efforts progress. He estimates that between 10 and 20 people could be discovered dead each day until the search is completed, which is expected to take approximately 10 days. The number of missing individuals has decreased to around 1,300 as cellphone service gradually returns.
Search teams, consisting of twenty cadaver dogs and numerous searchers, are methodically making their way through the blocks that have been reduced to ash. They are currently conducting a thorough search street by street and block by block. Soon, they will begin to enter buildings in their quest to locate any remaining survivors or victims.
One critical issue brought to light by these wildfires is the scarcity of water for the firefighters. State officials are concerned about the availability of water resources, which could hamper firefighting efforts.
The devastating wildfires in Lahaina continue to wreak havoc, with the loss of life hitting a historic high. As search operations intensify, the true extent of the tragedy is gradually unfolding.
This is absolutely heartbreaking. My thoughts and prayers go out to all those affected by this devastating fire. 🙏🏼💔