Dozens of lives have been lost and homes and buildings have been destroyed in Lahaina, Maui due to devastating wildfires. Experts have expressed concern that the town’s iconic banyan tree may not survive the damage caused by the fires. The occurrence of severe weather is increasingly linked to the climate crisis, resulting in devastating consequences. Multiple wildfires, attributed to strong winds from Hurricane Dora, have ravaged Maui, resulting in the deaths of at least 67 individuals and the displacement of thousands. The town of Lahaina, which is home to approximately 12,000 people, has experienced extensive destruction of historic buildings, including the Baldwin Home Museum, the 200-year-old Waiola Church, and the Pioneer Inn. Photos reveal the damage inflicted upon the banyan tree, which has been a prominent feature in front of the city’s old courthouse for 150 years. Kaniela Ing, a Native Hawaiian from Maui, expressed his heartbreak over the sight of the tree being severely damaged. J.B. Friday, a forester with the University of Hawaii, doubts the survival of the banyan tree, explaining that even if it does survive, it may not be healthy and could pose a risk due to dead branches. Timothy Griffith Jr., a Maui arborist, is cautiously optimistic about the tree’s fate and hopes that some portion of it can be saved. The tree’s roots will likely determine its ability to regrow. Officials in Maui have stated that while the roots may indicate the potential for regrowth, the tree appears burned and its future is uncertain.Senator Brian Schatz reported that the tree was still smoldering at the base. The banyan tree holds immense significance for the residents of Lahaina due to its sheer size and beauty. With 16 trunks stretching over almost an acre and green leaves and branches reaching over 60 feet above ground, the tree has provided shade and served as a backdrop for various events. The town has adorned the tree with Christmas lights and utilized it for numerous occasions, including music performances, 5K runs, and car shows. The banyan tree has become an iconic symbol of Lahaina, and its current state of scorching and scarring, along with other parts of the island, is deeply distressing to the community. While attributing any single event to climate change requires further analysis, scientists assert that overall global warming contributes to more intense hurricanes and flash droughts, which increase the likelihood of destructive wildfires. Lahaina’s banyan tree holds a unique history. It was originally planted by Sheriff William Owen Smith in 1873 to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the first Protestant mission in Lahaina. Over the years, it has served as a venue for various meaningful events. Banyan trees, native to India, have aerial roots that sprout from branches and can turn into new trunks when they come into contact with the ground. They are often referred to as “walking trees.” Lahaina’s community gardeners have carefully managed the tree’s growth by utilizing water-filled pickle jars attached to the roots and pruning them. The tree’s pollination process relies on fig wasps, without which the tree cannot reproduce. Banyan trees have proven to be resilient against drought and windy conditions and can live for centuries. Unfortunately, the recent fire has potentially cut short the banyan tree’s lifespan. To support emergency efforts in Maui, here’s how you can help.
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