14 Aug 2023 | 02:16 PM UTC
US: Emergency crews continuing response to wildfires in Maui, Hawaii, as of early Aug. 14 /update 5
Emergency crews continuing response to wildfires in Maui, Hawaii, US, as of Aug. 14. Death toll continues to rise; disruptions ongoing.
Event
Emergency crews are continuing their efforts to contain several wildfires burning across Maui as of early Aug. 14. Multiple fires broke out across Hawaii Aug. 8, fanned by strong winds associated with the passing of Hurricane Dora to the south of Hawaii. The most severe fires occurred on Maui, causing fatalities, damage to property, and forcing many people to leave their homes. Whilst the strides to contain the three main fires are being made, crews continue to work to extinguish flare-ups and authorities are responding to the widespread devastation caused by the fires. As of late Aug. 13, the Lahaina blaze is 85 percent contained, the Pulehu/Kihei blaze is 100 percent under control, and the fire in Upcountry Maui is 60 percent contained.
The fire in and near Lahaina has caused widespread devastation in the area, injuring dozens, with others requiring treatment for smoke inhalation. At least 96 people are known to have died in the wildfires; the death toll will likely increase as rescue and recovery efforts progress. Downed communication lines are hampering location efforts. The blaze has destroyed more than 2,700 structures, including most of the historic town of Lahaina. Around 20 structures were also destroyed in the Upcountry Maui fire. Emergency shelters for displaced residents are located at South Maui Gym, War Memorial, Hannibal Travers Community Center, Maui Lani LDS Church, Kings Cathedral Church, and Grace Bible Church; more than 1,000 people were being housed in these shelters as of Aug. 13.
Road access to areas where response operations are ongoing remains restricted. As of Aug. 13, officials have issued an unsafe water advisory notice for the Lahaina and Kula areas. Hawaiian Electric reported around 5,000 customers in Oluwalu, Lahaina, Kaanapali, and Napili remained without power as of Aug. 13. Officials in Hawaii issued an emergency proclamation relating to wildfires in Maui and Hawaii counties Aug. 8, while federal authorities declared a major disaster for Hawaii Aug. 9. State authorities are urging the public to avoid all nonessential travel to Maui until further notice.
Transport
The wildfires are causing transport disruptions in the affected areas. The status of nearby routes will likely change over the coming hours and days; authorities could close roads within the wildfire complexes and evacuated communities due to fire activity and the requirements of response operations. Once the fires are under control, the return of residents could disrupt traffic flows after authorities lift evacuation orders. Low visibility from smoke and possible ashfall could contribute to traffic delays and congestion in the region.
Advice
Heed all evacuation orders. Seek updated information on road conditions if driving in the affected area; road closures and detours may cause increased congestion and delays. Collect essential items - including identification and any important legal and travel documents - in an easily accessible "go-bag." Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged power outages.
Individuals not under evacuation warnings should consider remaining inside well-ventilated, air-conditioned spaces to reduce exposure to smoke. Individuals with chronic respiratory illnesses may be more susceptible to the negative effects of smoke inhalation. Eye irritation is possible; flush irritated eyes with copious amounts of clean water.
