Catastrophic Maui wildfires cause devastation; questions raised about warnings

A total of 80 people have died in Hawaii's Maui wildfires. The devastation has raised questions about whether the right warning was given to people for the wildfire.

Outlook International Desk

Updated on: 12 August 2023 11:23 pm

Representational image of wildfires

Wildfire in Hawaii's Maui has wreaked havoc. So far, a total of 80 people lost their lives during this devastating incident. With a drastic death toll, the authorities are seeking to determine how the fire spread so rapidly through the historic resort town. The catastrophe has also raised questions about the warnings that were given to residents. Questions were raised over warnings given to people before fire engulfed their homes?

Although officials have not yet disclosed detailed information about what kind of notifications and warnings were given to locals about the wildfire. Questions have been raised about whether residents were informed via text messages, phone calls, or email. The incident took place 3 days ago and since then the fire has been burning continuously. However, a major question remains about whether people were informed prior to the fire engulfed their homes.

Emergency sirens are set up all over the island to warn locals about natural disasters and other threats. However, none of the sirens sounded during the fire.

Maui's wildfire has surpassed the tsunami as one of the deadliest natural disasters in the state's history. In 1960, a tsunami killed a total of 61 people on the Big Island of Hawaii, while a total of 80 people have died so far in Maui's wildfire. Authorities have warned that the death toll could rise further as rescue operations continue.

Law enforcement has blocked off the burned-down town of Lahaina, and people are not allowed to enter the blocked areas. Officials have also warned that the blocked areas may contain harmful toxic particles from the scorched land. So far, 2,200 buildings have been damaged, leaving thousands of people stranded in emergency shelters.

Despite being 85% contained, the Lahaina fire that started in the brush and spread to the town is still burning. Two other wildfires on the island are 80% and 50% contained.