Image: PATRICK T. FALLON (AFP)
Another 17 victims were found on Thursday, the Maui district announced on Thursday afternoon (local time). After a tour of the completely burnt-out coastal town of Lahaina, Hawaii Governor Josh Green spoke of “probably the greatest natural disaster” in the history of the US state of Hawaii.
Green recalled the year 1960 when a tsunami hit Hawaii. The tidal wave claimed 61 lives at the time. With a view to the flames in Maui, Green said that the number of deaths will probably continue to rise. Hundreds of houses were destroyed. The property damage is in the billions. Lahaina will take years to rebuild.
US President Joe Biden pledged government disaster relief to Hawaii on Thursday. Those affected by the devastating fires should receive financial support from the federal government.
Thousands without a roof over their heads
Green also appealed to islanders and hotel operators to accommodate those affected. Thousands of people now need shelter. According to Maui County Mayor Richard Bissen, the west of the island remained without power and water supplies Thursday.
Several fires broke out on Maui and the neighboring island of Hawaii on Tuesday, which were quickly spread by strong winds. According to the authorities, the fire in Lahaina was 80 percent under control by Thursday afternoon.
Source: Nachrichten
