On Tuesday night a fire started in the historic Lahaina Town on Maui that has since grown and spread to become the deadliest wildfire in the U.S. in over five years.
As evacuations and assessments were being conducted, officials said more than 270 structures were damaged or destroyed, including entire blocks of homes, businesses and a 200-year-old church in Lahaina Town.
Centuries old Waiola Church one of the many structures that have burned down in the fire | Maui News photo by Matt Thayer
The fires − fueled by wind from passing Hurricane Dora and exacerbated by overly dry vegetation from the ongoing drought − were so intense that the Coast Guard rescued 14 people who fled into the ocean to escape flames and smoke Wednesday, including two children. And the danger has not passed. Firefighters were still battling the stubborn blazes Thursday, when reduced wind speeds aided their efforts.
Businesses and historic landmarks were destroyed as wildfires raced through the town. The cause of the fires is unknown, although some experts say human development on the island may be partly to blame. Plantation owners planted non-native grasses that have not adapted to the native ecosystem. The grasses are dry and prone to fires.
Lahaina is not only one of the most historic towns on Maui, but it is also one of the island’s surfing hotspots and is known for having fun and casual waves most months out of the year.
Before and after pictures of Lahaina Town captured by satellite | Maxar Technologies
Thousands of people are flocking to the support and aid of those affected by Lahaina Fire including many big names in surfing such as Coco and Mason Ho, Keoni Nozaki, Kelly Slater, Joel and Tosh Tudor, Maui native Ian Wash and more.
TGR Optics athlete and big wave surfer, Maddix Alotis who hails from North Shore, Oahu HI, shared: "Very shocked and saddened for my home state. I can’t imagine the devastation and sadness of the people of Maui are experiencing."
If you are looking for ways to support those affected by the fire, check out this article posted by CBS. Our thoughts and prayers go out to those who have lost loved ones.
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August 12th, 2023
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Hayarpi
August 21st, 2023
The devastating fire in Lahaina Town on Maui is truly tragic. The destruction of historic sites, homes, and businesses is heart-wrenching. The community’s response, especially from the surfing world, showcases the power of unity during tough times. Our thoughts are with everyone affected. | Please click here for more information about our junk removal services.