Multiple structures were burned, evacuations were forced, and power outages occurred in several communities in Hawaii due to wildfires fueled by strong winds. Firefighters faced challenges in reaching some areas due to downed trees and power lines. The National Weather Service attributed the strong gusts of over 60 mph to Hurricane Dora, which was passing safely 500 miles south of the island chain. In response to the situation, Acting Governor Sylvia Luke issued an emergency proclamation and activated the Hawaii National Guard.
On Maui, fire crews battled blazes in two areas: West Maui, a popular tourist destination, and an inland, mountainous region. The extent of the damage to buildings was unknown at the time. The high winds prevented helicopters from aiding in firefighting efforts, and firefighters encountered blocked roads due to fallen trees and power lines. Approximately 13,000 customers in Maui experienced power outages.
Maui County spokesperson Mahina Martin described the situation as one of the most challenging days for the island, with multiple fires and evacuations in different areas. Wind speeds reached 80 mph in inland Maui, and one fire that had previously been contained reignited due to the strong winds.
Fire Assistant Chief Jeff Giesea emphasized the rapid spread of the fires, highlighting the potential for a fire to reach homes within minutes. The presence of Hurricane Dora further complicated firefighting efforts in an already dry season. Hawaii, situated between high and low pressure systems, experiences dangerous fire conditions during dry and windy periods.
In the Kula area of Maui, two homes were destroyed in a fire that consumed approximately 1,100 acres. Maui Mayor Richard Bissen stated that around 80 people were evacuated from 40 homes. On the Big Island, about 400 homes in four communities in the northern part of the island were evacuated, with one house’s roof catching fire.
Fires in Hawaii differ from those in the U.S. West, typically occurring in large grasslands on the dry sides of the islands and being smaller in scale. However, they still pose significant environmental risks, such as vegetation loss and soil erosion that can harm coral reefs when heavy rainfall follows a fire.
Hawaii Emergency Management Agency Communication Director Adam Weintraub reported power outages, downed power lines, and traffic issues on the island of Oahu, where Honolulu is located. The National Weather Service issued high wind warnings and red flag warnings for dangerous fire weather conditions, which were expected to persist until Wednesday before gradually decreasing.
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