Maui Ablaze

  On August 8, 2023, the Maui, Hawaii wildfires blazed their way into history, taking the lives of more than 100 people and leaving many injured, and forced to evacuate. The Lahaina wildfire became the deadliest to hit the United States in over a century, bringing much devastation to residents and tourists alike. The fires occurred during a time of strong winds and dry conditions on Maui, with peak gusts ranging from 45-67 miles per hour. The small brush fire erupted into an inferno due to the strong winds and the seemingly miniscule fire threat soon increased. When winds kicked up Hawaii’s largest electric utility, Hawaiian Electric, did not cut power to their lines, while many other companies did, the brush fire began when the powerline snapped and ignited the dry grounds below. Within twelve hours an inferno consumed Lahaina. Weather forecasts underestimated Lahaina’s risk; crucial escape routes remained blocked for hours, varied messages to the public, and extreme communication failures left Maui in flames. Near mid-December, Lahaina reached a milestone reopening to residents and business owners holding day passes. While much remains to be done to recover from the fire, Lahiana takes steps forward in rebuilding the 18,692 acres the flames destroyed.