Hawaii’s Maui Island Forest Fires: Death Toll Rises to 36

Devastating forest fires, intensified by Hurricane Dora, continue to rage on Maui Island, Hawaii, leading to the death of at least 36 individuals. Much of the popular Lahaina resort city has been destroyed, and 20 severely burned individuals have been airlifted to O’ahu Island. Given the scale of destruction, authorities anticipate the death count could rise further. To date, about 2,100 residents have been evacuated, and 271 structures reported damaged or destroyed. Over 11,000 tourists have been evacuated, with Maui Airport operating to facilitate departures, and airlines are offering reduced ticket prices, according to Ed Sniffen from the Hawaii Department of Transportation.