The death toll from the horrific wildfire that swept through Hawaii surged to 80, raising numerous questions about the state’s emergency response. Over 2,200 structures were consumed by the inferno, and officials estimate that it will cost $5.5 billion to rebuild the affected communities.
An investigation into the incident has been launched by state authorities, as Congresswoman Jill Tokuda from Hawaii conceded that the dangers had been underestimated. In the resort city of Lahaina, a historic banyan tree was scarred by the fire yet remains standing, its branches bereft of life and its sooty trunk looking like an awkward skeleton.
Hawaii’s Attorney General Anne Lopez will be examining “critical decision-making and standing policies leading up to, during, and after the wildfires on Maui and Hawaii islands this week.” Maui County officials revised the death toll to 80, and Governor Josh Green warned that the number would continue to rise.
Lahaina resident Anthony Garcia described the devastating consequences of the fire, saying that it had “taken everything” from him. “It’s heartbreaking,” he lamented to AFP. “It’s a lot to take in.”
Jeremy Greenberg, the director of operations for FEMA, remarked that this kind of wildfire is “extraordinarily difficult” to control. He said that FEMA was “bringing every resource that the state of Hawaii needs,” including water from other sources due to contamination. Over 1,400 people were in evacuation shelters during the crisis, and the agency has sent over 150 people to be on-site.
The recent fire follows other extreme weather events experienced in both North America and abroad, attributed to global warming caused by carbon emissions. For many in Hawaii, the fire had destroyed homes and taken away memories. Chyna Cho joyously declared her delight at finding Amber Langdon among the ruins, exclaiming: “You made it!”
Lahaina resident Anthony La Puente said it was difficult finding his home burned to the ground. He said: “It sucks not being able to find the things you grew up with, or the things you remember.”
The harrowing consequences of the disaster are a stark reminder of the risks of global warming and how essential it is for emergency services to be prepared. Questions need to be answered to ensure that lessons are learned and responses to future crises are better prepared for. Hawaii officials have promised to deliver a thorough investigation and it is to be hoped that their work will bring the people of the state some peace.
