Death toll from Hawaii wildfires reaches 106 – Maui County

MOSCOW, August 16 (Sputnik) -The number of fatalities from one of the deadliest fires in US history that swept through Hawaii has reached 106 people, according to new data published by Maui County on Wednesday.

“For the Aug. 15, 2023, fatality update from the County of Maui / Maui Police Department, public notification of identification includes the following: Total fatalities: 106,” the county said in a statement.

Earlier on Wednesday, Hawaii Governor Josh Green warned that the death toll could rise significantly as local authorities only covered about 27% of the search area as of August 15.

The wildfires in Hawaii were fueled by dry and hot weather and exacerbated by strong winds brought on by Hurricane Dora.

The fire destroyed several settlements, including the popular tourist town of Lahaina, and forced the authorities to block roads and suspend public transportation. Hundreds of local residents have been evacuated from the area.

Last week, US President Joe Biden declared a major disaster in Hawaii, making additional federal resources available to help combat the ongoing wildfires on the islands.