Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Administrator Deanne Criswell held a press conference on Hurricane Ian at FEMA Headquarters on September 28, 2022 in Washington, DC.
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The aftermath of the Maui wildfires has left FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell in awe, with at least 96 fatalities, marking it as the deadliest wildfire in the United States in over a century.
“The sights I witnessed during my time here are indescribable, and the emotional toll they have taken on the affected communities is unimaginable,” Criswell shared during a video conference from Hawaii, addressing reporters at the White House on Monday.
She further mentioned that more than 300 dedicated FEMA employees are currently on the ground, providing support by offering 50,000 meals, 75,000 liters of water, and distributing 5,000 cots and 10,000 blankets. Although the exact cost of the wildfires is yet to be determined by FEMA, preliminary estimates suggest it may reach approximately $5.6 billion. [LINK]
“It is still too early to ascertain the total cost,” Criswell stated. “Once we gain more detailed information and assess the extent of the damage to infrastructure, only then can we provide a more accurate estimate.”
The destructive nature of the fire has reduced entire residential blocks to ash and rubble.
Robert Gauthier | Los Angeles Times | Getty Images
FEMA has now initiated the relocation of survivors from emergency shelters to temporary hotel accommodations.
“This transition will allow them to move from shelters to pre-identified hotels or motels temporarily, while they work on developing long-term housing solutions,” Criswell explained.
Criswell also expressed that Governor Josh Green is collaborating with Airbnb to provide housing options for displaced Hawaiians.
“The community has displayed remarkable resilience, coming together to support one another as they contemplate the path to recovery,” she added.
Criswell acknowledged that search and rescue operations are still ongoing, but their progress is hindered by hazardous conditions. Maui Police Chief John Pelletier mentioned that search dogs have only covered 3% of the affected area in the historic town of Lahaina as of Saturday.
“We aim to expedite our efforts while maintaining a methodical and culturally sensitive approach to ensure the thorough accounting of every individual,” Criswell emphasized. “Thus, we need to provide them with the necessary space and time.”
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