Devastating Fire Destroys Historic Town of Lahaina in Hawaii: Over 270 Structures Affected, Death Toll Rises to 36

A devastating wildfire destroys historic town of Lahaina on Maui

A devastating wildfire has destroyed the historic town of Lahaina on the Hawaiian island of Maui. The fire started on Tuesday and has caused widespread destruction in the western part of the island. The flames have also spread to other areas, resulting in the destruction of thousands of acres. Tragically, at least 36 people have lost their lives in the fires. The scenes in Lahaina are reminiscent of a war zone, with the town left in ruins.

Widespread damage in Lahaina town and surrounding areas

According to Maui County officials, flyovers conducted by the U.S. Civil Air Patrol and Maui Fire Department revealed that over 271 structures have been affected in Lahaina town. The officials stated that there is widespread damage in the West Maui town, as well as in the harbor and surrounding areas. Documentation of the damage is currently underway.

Rescue efforts by U.S. Coast Guard and military

The U.S. Coast Guard and military have been working together to rescue people from the wildfires in the Pacific Ocean. A 45-foot boat was used to save at least 14 individuals who had to flee into the water to escape the fires and smoke. The military has deployed helicopters and other equipment to aid in rescue and firefighting efforts.

Deployment of helicopters by U.S. Army and Navy

The U.S. Army and Navy have deployed helicopters to assist in firefighting and search and rescue operations in Hawaii. The U.S. Army's 25th Combat Aviation Brigade has sent two UH-60 Blackhawks and one CH-47 Chinook, while the U.S. Navy's Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron 37 has deployed MH-60R Seahawk helicopters to support the U.S. Coast Guard.

Historical significance of Lahaina town

The town being highlighted in The New York Times article has a rich historical value and is located on an island. It has a heritage museum housed in a landmark courthouse that contains artifacts from before Hawaii was known to the rest of the world. The town's oldest building, the Baldwin Home, was occupied by a physician in the 19th century who saved Maui from a smallpox epidemic. The central feature of the town is a 150-year-old banyan tree, which was planted to commemorate the arrival of Christian missionaries in 1873.

Loss of the Lahaina Banyan Tree

The Lahaina Banyan Tree, a beloved landmark in Maui, has tragically fallen. A Twitter user shared a video they took under the tree's leaves during a visit two summers ago. They ask for support and compassion for the people of Maui during this difficult time.

Fire engulfs Waiola Church hall and Lahaina Hongwanji Mission temple

The Waiola Church hall and the nearby Lahaina Hongwanji Mission temple in Hawaii have caught fire and are currently engulfed in flames. The incident occurred on Tuesday afternoon, and images shared on social media show the extent of the fire. Further details about the cause of the fire or any injuries are not provided in the given content.