Wildfires are rapidly spreading across parts of Maui, Hawaii, causing significant damage to a Historic Town and forcing residents to evacuate. The fires, which were partly fueled by strong winds from Hurricane Dora passing south of the island chain, resulted in power outages and the grounding of firefighting helicopters.

Satellite images from NASA depicted active flames throughout much of the historic town of Lahaina, confirming videos and photos circulating on social media. The town’s main strip of shops, including Alan Dickar’s Vintage European Posters gallery, has been burned down. Dickar managed to evacuate with three friends and two cats, but lost all his belongings in the fire.

Some residents, like Kekai Keahi, are already thinking about rebuilding. Keahi, a Lahaina community teacher, expressed his determination to come together with the community and rebuild, although it may take years.

Hawaii Governor Josh Green is expected to request emergency federal assistance once the extent of the damage is assessed. He stated that hundreds of families have been displaced and significant parts of Lahaina have been destroyed.

Limited communication and power outages have made it difficult for residents to contact their loved ones. Posts have been made on social media platforms in the hopes of finding information about family members. Several burn patients have been flown to Honolulu’s specialized burn unit for treatment.

Although the high winds that fueled the wildfires are expected to diminish, there is little chance of rain to aid in firefighting efforts. The affected area of Maui is experiencing a moderate drought, while the northern part of the Big Island is considered abnormally dry.

Approximately 2,000 travelers, including those from canceled flights, sought shelter at Kahului Airport on Maui.

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