Possible cause of Maui wildfires

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【Summary】Devastating wildfires in Maui may have been caused by a falling tree on power lines, as shown in security video footage. The video captures a flash of light followed by a bright flame, suggesting fallen utility lines as the possible cause. Other evidence includes data from Whisker Labs showing a major incident in the power grid at the same time. The Hawaiian Electric Co. faces criticism for not shutting off power amid high wind warnings.

FutureCar Staff Aug 16, 2023 10:40 AM PT

Devastating wildfires have ravaged the Hawaiian island of Maui, claiming over a hundred lives and destroying large areas. Recent security footage from a bird sanctuary in Maui has emerged as crucial evidence suggesting that fallen utility lines may have caused the wildfires. The footage captured a flash of light followed by a bright flame, which continued to burn. Jennifer Pribble, a senior research coordinator at the Maui Bird Conservation Center, explained that the video shows a tree falling on a power line, causing a power outage and subsequently igniting the forest. Efforts were made to contain the fire, but it quickly spread and became one of the many wildfires that have devastated the region.

In addition to the video evidence, data from Whisker Labs revealed that ten sensors in the nearby town of Makawao recorded a major incident in the power grid. Experts have suggested that the bright light seen in the video was likely an "arc flash," which occurs when a power line is knocked down or collides with something, releasing sparks. Bob Marshall, founder and CEO of Whisker Labs, stated that this data strongly confirms that utility grid faults were likely the ignition source for multiple wildfires on Maui.

Another video shared online by Shane Treu captured what experts believe may have been the initial moments of the wildfires. Treu witnessed a wooden power pole snapping and the power lines falling onto the dry grass below. He described hearing a buzzing sound, similar to a firework, and observed the fire rapidly spreading up the hill due to strong winds.

Hawaiian Electric Co. has faced criticism for not shutting off the power despite high wind warnings and numerous poles toppling. However, Hawaiian Electric President and CEO Shelee Kimura assured the public that they are committed to supporting the community and are working closely with state and county emergency management teams to restore critical circuits serving essential facilities.

As of Tuesday, the death toll from the wildfires has reached 106, with officials expecting the number to rise as search efforts continue. Only five of the deceased have been identified so far due to the extensive damage caused by the blaze. Approximately 1,000 people are still reported missing.