Maui wildfires claim 96 lives, fear of additional casualties

author: FutureCar Staff    

Hawaii's governor has issued a warning that the death toll from the Maui wildfires could rise significantly as search crews continue to comb through affected neighborhoods. The flames spread rapidly, moving at a speed of up to two kilometers per minute across the island, and have already become the deadliest fires in the US in over a century, with at least 96 confirmed deaths.

In a recorded interview aired on Monday, Governor Josh Green expressed the expectation of discovering more tragic stories as search efforts progress. He estimated that search teams would find around 10 to 20 people per day until the search is completed, which could take up to 10 days.

The number of missing individuals has decreased from over 2,000 to approximately 1,300 as mobile phone service has been gradually restored. Searchers, accompanied by twenty cadaver dogs, are currently working their way through the devastated blocks, sifting through the ashes.

The recovery efforts involve a comprehensive plan to provide support for those affected. Governor Green announced that 500 hotel rooms would be made available for displaced locals, with an additional 500 rooms reserved for Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) workers assisting in the recovery process.

FEMA has also started providing financial assistance to displaced residents, offering $700 to cover the costs of essential supplies such as food, water, first aid, and medical supplies. This aid is in addition to any compensation residents may receive for property loss.

The Biden administration is seeking $12 billion in additional funding for the government's disaster relief fund as part of its supplemental funding request to Congress. This additional funding would support ongoing recovery efforts and help affected communities rebuild.

The fire, which engulfed the historic town of Lahaina, destroyed nearly all of its buildings. Notable musician Mick Fleetwood revealed that his restaurant, Fleetwood's on Front Street, was among the structures lost.

While the fire is now 85% contained, authorities have warned about the potential presence of toxic byproducts, including in drinking water, due to the fire's poisonous fumes. Many individuals have also been left without homes, and plans are being made to accommodate them in hotels and vacation rentals.

FutureCar Staff