One year ago, Maui faced its darkest day as a catastrophic wildfire claimed 102 lives, marking the nation's deadliest blaze in over a century. On Thursday, the community gathered in Lahaina to remember those lost and reflect on the path to recovery.
Dozens of surfers, canoe paddlers, and boat riders took part in the traditional \"paddle out\" ceremony, a poignant ritual in Hawaii honoring loved ones. The beach park was filled with spectators, all paying tribute by blowing conch shells and releasing flower petals into the ocean.
Governor Josh Green addressed the crowd, stating, \"Today we're remembering the 102 loved ones we lost, the many injured, those who lost their homes. We are grieving for them, still.\" His words echoed the collective sorrow and resilience of the Maui community.
Rebuilding Lives and Homes
The wildfire destroyed over 2,200 homes, leaving 12,000 people without shelter. While thousands have gradually moved into rental apartments, houses, and temporary modular homes, permanent housing remains a work in progress. Building permits in the burn zone are being issued, but experts predict that reconstruction will take years, echoing the five-year rebuilding process experienced by Paradise, California after their 2018 wildfire.
The Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement reports that at least 1,500 Lahaina households have left Maui since the fire, exacerbating the existing chronic housing shortage and complicating recovery efforts.
Nature's Resilience
Arborists estimate that the fire razed around 25,000 trees in Lahaina, including valuable fruit trees like mango, avocado, lychee, and breadfruit. Remarkably, the 150-year-old banyan tree on Front Street survived, thanks to dedicated efforts by arborists. Additionally, breadfruit trees, known as ulu in Hawaiian, were preserved, maintaining a vital connection to Lahaina's Polynesian heritage.
Environmental Impact and Recovery
The environmental aftermath of the wildfire is still unfolding. Hawaii's Department of Health has declared the waters off Lahaina safe for surfing and swimming after rigorous testing. However, scientists continue to study the potential effects of chemicals and metals from burned plastics, lead paint, and lithium-ion batteries on offshore coral reef ecosystems.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the Army Corps of Engineers have been tirelessly working to remove toxic debris and clear rubble from residential and commercial lots. While temporary storage sites are in place, long-term disposal solutions are being sought to address environmental and community concerns.
Looking Ahead
In response to the disaster, the Maui Fire Department has expanded its team with 29 new firefighters, and the Maui Emergency Management Agency has added 13 workers. Mayor Richard Bissen emphasized proactive measures, including door-to-door notifications to ensure timely evacuations.
Governor Green highlighted the urgency of accelerating housing construction and approving building permits, acknowledging the challenge of securing enough construction workers amid ongoing shelter shortages.
As Maui commemorates this somber anniversary, the community remains united in grief and determination, striving to rebuild and honor the memories of those they lost.
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Maui remembers the 102 lost in wildfire a year after devastating blaze
cgtn.com
