Hawaii wildfires claim 53 lives, destroy historic town. How did the fire start?

In the wake of the catastrophic wildfires that swept through the Hawaiian island of Maui, a scene of utter devastation has emerged. The death toll has risen to 53, as survivors recount harrowing stories of narrow escapes and loss.

This is the deadliest US wildfire since 2018's Camp Fire in California. US President Joe Biden has declared the wildfires a 'major disaster,' unlocking federal aid to support relief and recovery efforts. Evacuations are underway, with local authorities urging visitors to leave the island promptly.

"Lahaina, with a few rare exceptions, has been burned down," Hawaii Governor Josh Green told The Associated Press. More than 1,000 structures were destroyed by fires that were still burning, he said.

Governor Green told CNN that the death toll is going to rise significantly. "In 1960, we had 61 fatalities when a large wave came through Big Island. This time, it's very likely that our death totals will significantly exceed that," he said.

A Once Vibrant Landscape Reduced to Ashes

The wildfire, which caught Maui by surprise, was fueled by a dry summer and amplified by strong winds generated by a passing hurricane. The flames swiftly engulfed parched landscapes, consuming homes, structures, and anything in their path.

A somber flyover of the historic town of Lahaina reveals the extent of the devastation caused by the wildfires. Neighborhoods that once thrived with vibrant colors and island life now lie obliterated, reduced to gray ash and rubble, reported AP.

Landmarks, including the iconic Front Street where tourists recently strolled, have been transformed into blackened foundations.

 

What Caused the Wildfires?

While the official cause of the Maui wildfires is yet to be determined, several contributing factors have been identified:

Drought conditions: Months of drought had left the vegetation exceptionally dry, turning the landscape into a tinderbox awaiting ignition.

Powerful winds: Hurricane Dora, although distant, brought strong winds that propelled the flames and hindered containment efforts.

Invasive plants: The proliferation of invasive plant species, notably guinea grass, created a conducive environment for rapid fire spread.

Human activity: While speculative, human actions, whether accidental or deliberate, cannot be ruled out as a potential trigger for the wildfires.

 

Climate Change Amplifies the Risk

Experts emphasize the role of climate change in such disasters. Flash droughts, like the one experienced by Maui, are driven by soaring temperatures and rapidly evaporating moisture from the environment.

This vicious cycle creates conditions ripe for wildfires. The island's transformation from lush to bone dry over a few weeks illustrates the increasing threat posed by extreme weather events linked to climate change.

 

The Destruction Caused by Maui Wildfires

Loss of life: The death toll stands at 53, making this the deadliest US wildfire since 2018's Camp Fire in California.

Structural devastation: Over 1,000 structures, including homes and businesses, have been razed to the ground.

Displacement: Thousands have been displaced from their homes, leaving them grappling with uncertainty and grief.

Environmental losses: The fires have wreaked havoc on the island's flora and fauna, erasing vital ecosystems.