There is no safe place to be any more to escape the impacts of global warming. On the island of Maui, a brush fire ignited (the exact cause is yet to be determined), dry tinder and powerful winds from Hurricane Dora spread embers across the island. The hurricane passed to the south of the Hawaiian Islands.
Residents say an overwhelmed fire force — fighting flames all day amid powerful winds — could do little as flames ripped through the historic community, destroying dozens of homes and businesses in what onlookers believe is the worst natural disaster in Hawaii’s history since Hurricane Iniki.
Acting Gov. Sylvia Luke confirmed that the Hawaii National Guard had been activated to help respond to the sprawling fire crisis, which also includes other raging wildfires. The flames have forced thousands to their homes, and many aren’t sure what they’ll find when they return.
Officials confirmed to Hawaii News Now that the Coast Guard deployed a helicopter and boat to Front Street Beach and the Lahaina Small Boat Harbor to rescue a number of people from the water.
The winds — fueled by Hurricane Dora as it passes south of the state — have topped 55 mph in many spots, with gusts to 70 to 80 mph. In addition to wildfires, first responders are grappling with downed trees and damaged structures. Also on Maui, thousands remain without power.
And while the Lahaina fire appears by fire to have wrought the most devastation, widespread damage is also being reported in Kihei and Kula, where evacuation orders also remain in place.
Climate change is a threat multiplier and can turn a natural disaster into an apocalypse. Like most islands, Hawaiians have done little to contribute greenhouse gases to the atmosphere and oceans.
Tribute to Maui from Oahu’s halau, Ke Kai O Kahiki.