Dogs Trained to Find Bodies Search for Survivors Amidst Devastating Wildfires in Maui
Following the deadly wildfires in Maui, Hawaii, where at least 80 people lost their lives, search and rescue teams are utilizing dogs trained to find bodies to locate survivors amidst the rubble and ash. As the survivors begin to comprehend the extent of the destruction and contemplate rebuilding their lives from scratch, officials are working tirelessly to find temporary housing for over 4,000 displaced individuals. However, with communication difficulties and power outages expected to last weeks, the road to recovery is fraught with challenges.
Escape from a Nightmare
Amidst the chaos and devastation, those fortunate enough to escape the fast-moving fires are counting their blessings. Bill Wyland, owner of an art gallery in Lahaina, described the harrowing experience of fleeing on his Harley Davidson, narrowly avoiding traffic by veering onto empty sidewalks. As he raced through the winds at 70 mph, he witnessed scenes reminiscent of a horror movie, including a desperate man pedaling furiously for his life. Reflecting on his escape, Wyland expressed his gratitude for his survival while mourning the loss of his gallery and the works of 30 artists.
The Aftermath and the Need for Shelter
The devastation caused by the wildfires in Lahaina is still being assessed, with emergency managers working to determine the extent of the damage. As of now, it is estimated that as many as 4,500 people require shelter. Flyovers conducted by the Civil Air Patrol have revealed that nearly all of the 1,692 structures in Lahaina were destroyed, with over 80% of them suffering significant damage. The situation is dire, with nine boats sinking in Lahaina Harbor as well. The death toll currently stands at 80, but authorities fear that number may rise as search efforts continue.
No Warning, Limited Resources
Many survivors of the wildfires expressed their shock and frustration at the lack of warning they received. Lynn Robinson, who lost her home, stated that there was no advance notice or sirens to alert them of the impending danger. Emergency management records confirm that warning sirens were not activated before residents had to flee. While alerts were sent through various channels, including mobile phones and televisions, widespread power and cellular outages may have hindered their effectiveness. In light of these revelations, Attorney General Anne Lopez has announced plans for a comprehensive review of the decision-making and policies that impacted the response to the wildfires.
The Devastation of Lahaina
The wildfires, fueled by dry conditions and strong winds, swept through the town of Lahaina, leaving behind a trail of destruction. The heart of historic Lahaina, Front Street, was particularly hard-hit, with nearly every building reduced to rubble. Surviving roosters roam amidst the remnants of charred cars, while skeletal remains of buildings stand as a haunting reminder of what once was. The smell of burning lingers in the air, serving as a constant reminder of the devastation that took place.
The Aftermath and the Road to Recovery
The wildfires in Maui are projected to be the second-costliest disaster in the state’s history, following Hurricane Iniki in 1992. With the death toll rising and countless homes and businesses destroyed, the path to recovery will be long and arduous. However, the resilient residents of Lahaina are determined to move forward. Despite the loss of her home and cherished possessions, Lana Vierra expresses her desire to return and rebuild. Standing on the burnt grounds of her former home, she hopes that finding a way forward will bring her family peace.
As the community grapples with the aftermath of the wildfires, it is evident that better resources and preparedness are needed to mitigate future disasters. The limited staff and equipment of the Maui County Fire Department have proven insufficient in the face of such a devastating event. To prevent similar tragedies in the future, it is crucial to address these shortcomings and ensure that adequate resources are available to protect the community.
Read More of this Story at apnews.com – 2023-08-12 19:57:00
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