Maui wildfires rage in Hawaii, forcing some to flee into ocean
Raging wildfires in Hawaii, partially fueled by forceful winds from a passing hurricane, have prompted the evacuation of hundreds, leaving thousands without power, decimating homes, and even compelling some residents to seek refuge in the ocean to evade the encroaching flames.
According to statements from the Maui county authorities, the fires have impacted three distinct regions on the island: Lahaina, a bustling residential and tourist area featuring a commercial hub in West Maui; Kula, a residential enclave nestled in the mountainous and inland Upcountry region; and Kihei, a dynamic zone in South Maui boasting an array of residential dwellings, condos, short-term vacation rentals, and visitor facilities.
County spokesperson Mahina Martin conveyed to USA TODAY that numerous structures have succumbed to the flames, triggering multiple evacuation mandates as emergency teams grapple with the blaze's spread across vegetation and buildings. The precise count of evacuees, the expanse of the fires, and the extent of structural damage remain elusive, awaiting assessment with the dawn.
"We anticipate gaining critical insights at sunrise," Martin remarked, acknowledging the unprecedented scope of the incident that has thrust the entire island into crisis mode. Acting Governor Sylvia Luke and Maui Mayor Richard Bissen have both taken swift action, declaring states of emergency in response to the escalating inferno. The Hawaii National Guard has been activated, collaborating with the Maui Police Department at strategic traffic control posts under the supervision of the Hawaii Adjutant General.
The National Weather Service, in its analysis, attributed the confluence of Hurricane Dora's passage south of the island chain, coupled with potent high pressure in the northern region, to the generation of intense, destructive winds throughout the night.
"Given the formidable interplay of these forceful winds and low humidity levels, the resultant perilous fire weather conditions are projected to persist until the afternoon of Wednesday," emphasized the weather service's statement on Wednesday.
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