hawaii wildfires
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I saw an area that looked like it had been bombed, so we continue to track developing news out of Hawaii where at least 36 people are dead. Dozens of others are hurt as wildfires tear through Maui. The damage is extensive, with more than 270 buildings and homes turned to ash. The historic town of Lahaina is experiencing some of the most catastrophic damage, making it practically unrecognizable. Many people are wondering how the local economy will recover.
The mayor of Maui is spreading a message of hope, thanking everybody who has come to help. He acknowledges that the tragedy that hits one of them is felt by all, and despite the challenges, the community is determined to rebuild with resilience and aloha.
This morning, we're bringing you team coverage. Dan Griffin is live at the airport as planes from the island begin to land here in our state. But we begin with Maria Garcia, who is tracking the efforts people are taking to leave the island as quickly as possible.
Officials are urging visitors to leave the island quickly so that resources can be available for Maui residents who have lost everything. Yesterday alone, more than 11,000 travelers scrambled to get off the island. Over 1,500 people are expected to fly out of Maui today. Maui county is providing free shuttles to take people directly to the airport to assist more visitors in leaving.
Airlines are also stepping up to help. Southwest Airlines is offering 19 flights out of Maui, and Alaska, Delta, United, and American Airlines have brought in bigger planes to accommodate more passengers. Hawaiian Air is offering flights until 2 a.m. to ensure travelers can leave as quickly as possible. Alaska Airlines is waiving changing cancellation fees and encouraging people to postpone their vacations to Maui.
Amid the evacuation efforts, a flight landed at Sea-Tac from Hawaii less than an hour ago, with Dan Griffin at the airport greeting passengers. Many people are in shock and trying to figure out their next steps. Some are tourists, some are residents who have witnessed the destruction and devastation of their hometown.
One couple from Denver expressed concern that the focus seemed to be on tourists, while the priority should be helping the local people and preserving their history. The evacuations continue with buses transporting people to the Kahului airport.
In the meantime, planes are flying into the fray, bringing humanitarian supplies from the state to help animals affected by the fires. These supplies include dog and cat food, balm, gauze, bottled water, and bandages. The community's response to this tragedy is a testament to their strength and resilience.
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