The massive fire in Hawaii has been termed the deadliest US fire in over a century. The death toll has crossed 90, and authorities are still continuing rescue and fire containment operations.
Lahaina, a town in Hawaii, has faced the worst of the raging fire due to its naturally dry climate. Most of the town has been burnt down, leaving a few structures. The worst part is that the culturally rich city held many historically essential structures which were also not spared.
Residents who have returned to the area are now faced with a burnt husk of land in place of their colorful and bright homes. From demolished homes, businesses to a completely charred landscape, it looks like a nightmare turned reality.
Despite the climbing death toll and the tragic condition, hope persisted as the strong people of Hawaii strived to rebuild the place again. However, you need to know the basics of the fire and its extensive damage first.
Did Safeway in Lahaina Burn Down?
Safeway is a grocery chain store in Lahaina that has been left seemingly unharmed by the fire in Hawaii. A social media post shows the surrounding plots of a Safeway store burnt to the ground while the store is standing safe. The fire, unfortunately, damages the Cannery Mall.
The store also released a statement confirming that the location is untouched by fire but will remain closed until it is safe to be reopened. A spokesperson from the company also stated that the store is helping employees who have been affected by the fire.
Which Structures Burned Down in Lahaina?
Lahaina, the historic capital of Hawaii, was destroyed due to the fire that spread ravenously this week. The town is home to many historical buildings and an iconic banyan tree, most of which have either been damaged or razed to the ground. The fire damaged over 2000 residential and other structures and more than 2000 acres of land.
Although Lahaina is still under restoration efforts and a complete report of devastation isn’t out yet, here’s a list of all the notable structures that have been allegedly burnt down in the fire.
- Waiola Church
- Maria Lanakila Catholic Church
- Lahaina Jodo Mission
- Na Aikana Cultural Center
- Pioneer Inn
- The Old Lahaina Courthouse
- The Baldwin Home Museum
Thankfully, the more than 150 years old banyan tree that was outside the courthouse is still standing. It has received many charr marks and is partially blackened, but the tree has stood bravely against the rapidly spreading fire.
How Did the Hawaii Fire Begin?
The main triggering factor behind the Hawaii fire has not been found yet. According to experts, one of the causes could be the fall of active power lines due to the high winds. Hurricane Dora, a Category 4 calamity, promoted strong winds and low humidity that stoked the active bushfires of Maui. Worsening droughts also promoted fire.
Several law firms have announced their plans to represent the fire victims. One of the lawsuits claims Hawaiian Electric is at fault. It is the parent company of Maui’s power provider, and despite warnings of high wind, kept power lines activated.
Lahaina, a beautiful, culturally rich town in Hawaii, suffered the most damage as it is situated on the western coast of Maui, which generally receives less rain.
Is Hawaii Still Burning?
According to the latest update, the fire in the worst-hit area, Lahaina, has been contained by 85%. The fire in Upcountry-Kula and Pulehu-Kihei have been contained by 60 and 100%. However, it has not been extinguished yet.
According to the Hawaiian government, hot spots in gulches and other areas that are difficult to reach are making the control of fire difficult. Multiple fire crews have been assigned to monitor Lahaina and address any flare-ups, and there are no active threats at the moment.
The fire in Pulehu-Kihei is also being kept under watch, and there are no active threats other than the possibility of flare-ups.
Before you think the fire has been extinguished, let me clarify that 100 percent contained only means firefighters have the blaze surrounded by a perimeter inside which it can still burn. It will be declared extinguished only when fire personnel declares there is nothing left burning.
Show support to the residents of the fire-affected areas in Hawaii and consider donating to the helpless citizens. If you belong to the affected area, I hope you are safe and find a place to rest.
Comment your support for the devastated people below, and let’s hope that the Hawaiian government and other states can come together to solve the situation.
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