Wildfires in Hawaiian Island of Maui: Is it a Call to Action on Climate Change? How Can We Help?

Find Out How Wildfires in Hawaiian Island of Maui Can be a Call to Action on Climate Change and How We Can Help

Last Updated: August 11, 2023

Tweet

The news of fires in Maui, Hawaii spread throughout the world just like the wildfire. When I heard it, the first thing that came in my mind was what or who might have caused it? This tragic incident claiming 53 innocent lives, burning 1,000 and destroying 1,700 buildings is definitely a historic unfortunate event for the people of this state and the whole USA.

These days, whenever or wherever a natural disaster happens the usual suspect is always climate change. The media reports start raising the concern over climate change and global warming and the attention starts diverting to this phenomenon.

Is Climate Change to be Entirely Blamed?

As per the update of The Washington Post  The origin of Maui's fires remains unclear. Despite advanced warnings from the National Weather Service about heightened fire risk ("red flag situation"), the exact ignition source is unknown. Factors contributing to fire risk include prolonged drought, low humidity, and strong winds.

As per the reports, Tuesday midnight, fires exacerbated by strong winds swept Maui. Initial blaze consumed 675 acres in upper Makawao. By 11 a.m., 60 mph winds devastated Lahaina, while Kula and central valley also faced infernos.

Did Flash Draught Trigger the Fire?

Currently, roughly 83% of Maui Island is experiencing abnormal dryness or various levels of drought. Flash droughts, characterized by extreme heat and dryness, can parch the land and vegetation, creating a cycle that fosters wildfires.

We know thousands of people are still being forced from their homes as fires continue to burn in Maui. Our disaster teams are on the ground providing people refuge and comfort in shelters. If you’re trying to locate a nearby shelter, here are three ways you can do so.

Anyone is… pic.twitter.com/AfV89FpN45

— American Red Cross (@RedCross) August 11, 2023

Climate Change and Hawaii Wildfire

Wildfires are becoming more serious in Hawaii. The amount of land burned by wildfires each year has gotten four times bigger in the last few decades. Experts who study the weather (climatologists) say that less rain and hotter temperatures have made the islands more likely to have fires.

Certain grasses that catch fire easily have taken over some places where native plants used to grow. Also, climate change and global warming have made the state drier and hotter, which helps wildfires spread faster.

Hurricane Dora Exacerbated the Event

The strong winds blowing the fire were caused by a storm named Hurricane Dora. This storm was far away in the Pacific Ocean, south of Hawaii, as explained by the National Weather Service.

How Can You Help?

How did this event happen? Is climate change to be blamed entirely? Or are there other factors involved as well? These questions should be answered and will be answered with time, but for now , immediately what we can do is to figure out how we can help the people of Maui.

Wondering how to assist with the Hawaii fires? The fires have caused billions in damage and worsened housing shortages. State has urged visitors to leave Maui temporarily, allowing displaced residents to access accommodations. Donations can be made to the Hawaii Community Foundation, Maui Mutual Aid Fund aiding families, and the Aloha United Way's Maui Relief Fund for fire victims. Red Cross is also helping evacuees, you can support their initiatives.

Hawaii urgently needs help as fast and destructive wildfires spread on the Big Island and Maui. Hurricane Dora's powerful winds have made the fires worse, damaging communication, homes, and even the famous Lahaina town. Many people are hurt, hospitals are full, and many had to leave their homes. Sadly, a few lost lives and more might be found as search teams continue their work.

Note: If you are looking forward to helping Hawaii fire victims, you may want to check you’ve selected is registered as a 501(c)3, meaning it’s registered as a tax-exempt non-profit.

We hope you found our information helpful. Please share it with your friends and families:

Copy Link >>