As the barrage of fire rolled toward the western city of Lahaina, no sirens sounded on the Hawaiian island of Maui. At least 80 people died – partly because they were warned too late. But now the next catastrophe is already looming.
Hawaii’s governor has ordered a complete overhaul of wildfire emergency response. Maui’s warning sirens had not been activated when the Lahaina fire broke out Tuesday.
“But other layers of the emergency alert system have been activated, including cell phone alerts and messages on TV and radio stations,” the Hawaii Emergency Management Agency confirms.
Residents sometimes find only rubble and ashes
The fire service also underestimated the rapid spread of the fire. Winds of up to 80 mph fueled the fires. Most fires are now under control. Residents returned to their homes. But they found only rubble and ashes. After the fire disaster, many Hawaiians are left with only the things they were wearing when they fled.
people need food
Now the next catastrophe is imminent: there is a lack of essentials. Resources on the island are limited. “Even an expedited ocean freight would take two weeks to get to the island,” explains Richard Yust, general manager of the Maui Food Bank. People need food, water, cleaning and hygiene products.
Not only the inhabitants are affected by the devastating consequences of the forest fires, animals too. Animal protection organizations are looking for temporary shelters for hundreds of dogs and cats. Numerous four-legged friends suffer from smoke inhalation and require medical treatment.
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
