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An aerial view from Lahaina, Hawaii, reveals the devastating impact of the wildfires that have gripped Maui Island and Big Island. Tragically, the death toll has risen to 55, with thousands of residents and tourists forced to evacuate, leaving the once vibrant and historic resort city of Lahaina in ruins. This article aims to answer some key questions about the disaster.
HOW DID THE FIRES BEGIN?
At present, the causes of these fires, which ignited on Tuesday night, remain unknown. However, it is important to note that the National Weather Service had previously issued warnings for high winds and dry weather in the Hawaiian Islands, conditions that are highly conducive to wildfires. These warnings were later canceled on Wednesday. According to the U.S. Forest Service, nearly 85% of wildfires in the U.S. are caused by human activity, while natural causes such as lightning and volcanic eruptions account for the remaining percentage. Surprisingly, in the case of Hawaii, less than 1% of fires can be attributed to natural causes, as stated by Elizabeth Pickett, co-executive director of the Hawaii Wildfire Management Organization. Hawaii is home to six active volcanoes, including one on Maui. It is worth mentioning that the record-breaking heat experienced this summer has intensified wildfires in Europe and western Canada. Scientists attribute these extreme weather events to climate change, a direct result of our reliance on fossil fuels.
WHAT IS FUELING THE HAWAII WILDFIRES?
The wildfires have been fueled by the winds originating from Hurricane Dora, located hundreds of miles southwest in the Pacific Ocean. Additionally, a low-pressure system west of Japan has also played a role in generating strong sustained winds. Furthermore, the presence of dry vegetation has amplified the impact of the fires. The spread of non-native grasses, particularly Guinea grass, has become a significant concern. These grasses have proliferated in former farmland and forest areas, providing readily combustible materials that increase the risk and intensity of fires. Astonishingly, such grasses now account for roughly 26% of Hawaii, highlighting the seriousness of the situation.
WHERE ARE THE FIRES LOCATED? HOW CONTAINABLE ARE THEY?
The fires have inflicted widespread devastation on Lahaina, a once-thriving beach resort city that historically served as a whaling center and the capital of the Hawaiian Kingdom. Each year, this city attracts approximately 2 million tourists. As of Thursday evening, the Lahaina fire has been 80% contained, while the Pulehu fire, burning to the east, is 70% contained. No estimate has been given regarding the Upcountry fire, which blazes in the mountainous center of the eastern part of the island, according to Maui County. Moreover, portions of the Big Island have also been scorched by the fires. According to reports from the U.S. Civil Air Patrol and Maui Fire Department, a total of 271 structures have been destroyed or damaged.
Hawaii, an archipelago situated roughly 2,000 miles (3,200 km) west of the U.S. mainland, consists of eight primary islands, with the Big Island (also known as Hawaii) being one of them. The island of Maui lies to the north and west of Hawaii.
In conclusion, the wildfires in Hawaii have unleashed unimaginable devastation, claiming the lives of 55 individuals, displacing thousands, and reducing the historic city of Lahaina to ruins. The exact cause of the fires is yet to be determined, but the high winds and dry weather that are conducive to wildfires have been key factors. Additionally, the presence of non-native grasses and dry vegetation has contributed to the rapid spread and severity of the fires. Efforts are underway to contain the blazes, with progress reported in some areas. However, the road to recovery will be long and challenging for the affected communities.
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