2023-08-18 08:26:56
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The devastating wildfires in Maui, Hawaii have left an indelible mark. The intensity of the fires has been such that residents have been forced to flee into the ocean, reflecting the scale of the disaster. At least 110 victims have been registered.
The fires have caused extensive devastation in Lahaina, a northwest Maui resort town of approximately 13,000 residents. Lahaina, once a whaling center and the capital of the Hawaiian kingdom, now welcomes about 2 million tourists each year.
In addition, the flames have consumed areas near Kihei, a coastal town in South Maui, and have devastated parts of Kula, a residential region located in the central mountainous area of the island. They have also incinerated parts of the Big Island.
Elizabeth Pickettco-executive director of the Hawaii Wildfire Management Organization, has emphasized that the archipelago’s ecosystem is not adapted to fire.
The crucial role of the wind
The exact causes of the fires that started on Tuesday night have not yet been identified. However, the National Weather Service had previously issued watches for the Hawaiian Islands, warning of high winds and dry weather conditions, conditions that are favorable for the spread of wildfires. These alerts were finally suspended late on Wednesday..
According to the United States Forest Service, around 85% of wildfires in the country are caused by human actions. Natural causes that can cause these fires include lightning and volcanic activity. It is important to note that there are six active volcanoes in the Hawaiian Islands, and one of them is located on Maui.
Aerial view of the fire on Maui.
What is fueling the fires on Maui, and in many places around the world, is the wind. In this case, Hurricane Dora to the south and a high pressure system to the north of Hawaii They have created wind gusts of almost 130 kilometers per hour, propelling the flames and allowing them to jump from structure to structure. These winds also have the ability to throw embers miles away, creating new flames.
In addition to the wind, Maui has also suffered from moderate to severe drought. Dry vegetation has accumulated and is ready to burn, and dry winds have further aggravated the situation by sucking up any remaining moisture. Climate change, with its warmer air, contributes to further drying.
Historical factors and invasive vegetation
The arrival of Europeans and the introduction of invasive herbs have also played a role. These fire-prone grasses have covered 26% of the state, creating an explosive and volatile landscape. The University of Hawaii at Mānoa has pointed to increasing drought and changes in fire behavior as clear signs that something is wrong.
Future challenges and solutions
In the future, Hawaiian communities will face additional challenges due to the “Wildland-Urban Interface” (WUI) where human development meets vegetation. This not only increases the risk, but also provides more sources of ignition. Experts believe that the vegetation management problem is solvable, and there is hope that, with increased awareness and action, future disasters in Hawaii can be prevented.
In short, the wildfires on Maui are a complex intertwining of natural and human factors. From hurricane-driven winds to drought, grass invasion, and climate change, it has all contributed to a disaster of catastrophic proportions. Future response and prevention will require a deep understanding and careful management of these elements, with a strong focus on adaptation and resilience.
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