Schools reopening, traffic moving again in signs of recovery from Maui fires that killed 110

In a signal of recovery from the devastating Maui wildfires that claimed at least 110 lives, public schools have begun to reopen and traffic has resumed on major roads. A week after the fires ravaged a historic town, the island’s emergency agency chief expressed no regret about the decision not to sound sirens to warn residents about the approaching flames.

Three schools in Lahaina, where entire communities were reduced to ashes, are still being evaluated after incurring wind damage. Hawaii’s Education Superintendent, Keith Hayashi, reported that while work continues, the structural condition of the campuses and classrooms is encouraging. He acknowledged that the recovery process is still in its early stages and grief continues for the many lives lost.

In other areas, crews are cleaning ash and debris at schools, and conducting tests on air and water quality. Displaced students enrolling in those schools will have access to services like meals and counseling. Additional counseling is also being offered to families and staff members.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has established its first disaster recovery center on Maui to provide assistance information to residents, with President Joe Biden set to visit the site soon.

Meanwhile, Maui Emergency Management Agency’s administrator, Herman Andaya, defended the decision not to use sirens during the fire, explaining that they could have directed people towards the fire. Although Hawaii has a large system of outdoor alert sirens, primarily for tsunamis, they have never been used for wildfires, even though they could be.

Local and state officials faced public criticism for the lack of water to combat the fire and a chaotic evacuation that left many trapped. One resident expressed anger over not receiving early warnings, and accused officials of fostering a false sense of security.

Governor Josh Green and Maui Mayor Richard Bissen responded to questions about mistrust by admitting mistakes but pointing to the commitment of emergency workers, including firefighters who lost their own homes.

As the death toll continues to rise, additional resources have been brought in to manage the situation, including a mobile morgue unit. Heartbreaking stories have emerged from those affected, such as elderly residents who struggled to escape the fast-moving flames.

Two schools were destroyed, and a moratorium has been placed on land transactions in the affected area to prevent opportunistic land grabs.

The wildfires are under investigation and are considered the deadliest in the U.S. in over a century. Hawaii’s vulnerability to disasters, especially wildfires, is increasing, according to an analysis of FEMA records. Governor Green has warned that more bodies may be found, reflecting the extensive damage and loss.

Eyewitnesses, including those who have previously experienced destructive wildfires, have spoken of the rapid movement of the flames and the dramatic transformation of once-vibrant landscapes. The tragic loss extends to personal and community levels, with some unable to even survey the damage to places they once considered home.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Wildfire aftermath

More about Wildfire aftermath

• Maui Wildfires: Recovery and Challenges
• Hawaii Department of Education
• Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)
• President Biden’s Visit to Maui
• Analysis of Hawaii’s Disaster Vulnerability