- 36 Killed in Fast-Moving Wildfires in Hawaii
- President Biden Declares Fires a “Major Disaster” and Releases Federal Aid
- Evacuations Continue as Search for Victims Continues
At least 36 people have been killed by fast-moving wildfires in Hawaii, a popular tourist destination in the United States, where rescuers hurried on Thursday to evacuate more people from the island of Maui.
On Tuesday, heavy winds from a cyclone to the south ignited brushfires on Maui’s west coast that quickly engulfed Lahaina.
The swiftly moving fires forced many to retreat into the ocean, according to officials.
President Joe Biden declared the fires a “major disaster” and unblocked federal aid for relief efforts, as residents said they needed more assistance and feared the town’s recovery would take years.
Biden identifies the fires as a major catastrophe and releases federal aid.
Some are urging Vice President Biden to declare a national emergency due to climate change to gain more administrative authority to combat the crisis.
White House official John Kirby told CNN on Thursday that a decision has not yet been made on whether the Hawaii disasters have altered the president’s thinking on the issue.
He said, “However, he is treating this issue with the gravity and seriousness that the climate crisis demands.”
Initial reports said “around 100 people were forced to enter the water.” US Coast Guard Commander Aja Kirksey told CNN. Kirksey reported that helicopters dispatched to the area encountered exceptionally low visibility due to the smoke. But that a Coast Guard vessel was able to rescue more than 50 individuals from the water.
Officials have also verified the deaths of 36 people, with the death toll expected to rise as searches continue.
On Thursday, Kahului International Airport will increase aircraft to evacuate thousands of Maui residents. Maui county has recommended that guests leave “immediately” and prepared for shelter-to-airport shuttles.
