MAUI COUNTY: As many as 80 people have been killed so far in the lethal natural tragedy in the Hawaiian island of Maui, US media reported on Saturday.
The tragedy is viewed as the deadliest disaster in the United States state’s history. As per media reports, fresh evacuations are also underway in the region as fires creep closer to the area of Kaanapali.
Officials expressed fear that the death toll may increase as hundreds of people are still missing. Hawaii’s attorney general announced a “comprehensive review” into how the officials replied to the crisis as questions mount over whether authorities warned inhabitants fast enough.
Earlier, officials in the Hawaiian fire-hit county feared it could take years to repair the damage caused by a massive wildfire that devastated parts of Maui, killed dozens, and destroyed the historic town, western media reports said on Friday.
The death toll on Maui, an island and major tourist attraction in Hawaii, has risen to 67, making it one of the deadliest disasters in the US state’s history.
Josh Green an official of the Hawaii government, warned that the death toll could rise as rescuers are trying to reach those parts of the island that had been inaccessible due to the fires. Green said hundreds of houses were razed in the fire, leaving thousands of people homeless.
Hawaiian Wildfire Recovery Could Take Years: Officials
He requested the people of other states to provide shelter to the victims of the Maui wildfire.
Maui Fire Chief Brad Ventura has told media that still there are fires on some parts of the island, and efforts are underway to extinguish the fire to avert more destruction.
Earlier, Maui County Police Chief John Pelletier, during a conference, said approximately 1,000 are missing in the incident.
President Biden has already approved a major federal disaster declaration to make funding available for people, governments, and local businessmen affected by the wildfires.
Hawaii is also getting support from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the National Guard.
People across the world are sympathizing with the people and government of Hawaii in the wake of the deadly wildfires.
