From paradise to ashes: Hawaii island charred to a crisp by wildfire

A devastating wildfire swept by the historic city of Lahaina on Hawaii’s Maui island on August 9, leading to at the least six fatalities.

The blaze, fueled by sturdy winds from Hurricane Dora, destroyed over 270 buildings and compelled hundreds to evacuate. Among the casualties was Fleetwood’s on Front St., a preferred restaurant owned by Mick Fleetwood.

The hearth’s fast unfold was exacerbated by gusts reaching as much as 67 mph, inflicting energy outages and hindering firefighting efforts. The predominant airport in Maui sheltered 2,000 vacationers as a consequence of flight cancellations.

The wildfire additionally triggered vital injury to Front Street, a vacationer hotspot. As the fires proceed to rage, officers worry the demise toll could rise. The actual reason for the hearth stays unknown, however dry circumstances and powerful winds have been recognized as contributing elements.