Disasters
First returnees allowed after deadly fires on Maui
Property damage on Maui is estimated at more than $5 billion. photo
© Jae C. Hong/AP/dpa
Severe wildfires have leveled several locations on the Hawaiian Island. Some residents still want to return – if only to see the destruction with their own eyes.
Almost seven weeks after the devastating fires on the Hawaiian Island Maui residents were allowed to enter parts of the coastal town of Lahaina again for the first time. According to the Maui County, residents will gradually be allowed to return to their properties in the largely burned area. Until now, access was only permitted to rescue workers and other helpers.
The forest and bush fires broke out on August 8th in several places on Maui and the neighboring island of Hawaii. About 3,000 buildings were destroyed on Maui and property damage is estimated at more than $5 billion. The death toll was last given as 97. At one point the authorities had reported 115 deaths.
Authorities warned returnees about possible dangers in the disaster zone, such as toxins in the ruins from melted lead, asbestos or chemicals. They were advised to wear protective clothing. They just have to see the destruction with their own eyes, said resident Tawni Katayama, according to Hawaii News Now. This is important in order to be able to conclude it.