Maui Wildfires Update: Death Toll Rises to 55, Lahaina Fire 80% Contained

The Maui wildfires continued to burn on Friday, August 11, 2023, but firefighters made progress in containing the blazes. The Lahaina fire, which is the most destructive of the three fires on Maui, is now 80% contained. The Pulehu fire is 70% contained, and the Upcountry fire is 30% contained.

The death toll from the wildfires has risen to 55, and it is expected to rise further. Thousands of people remain displaced, and nearly 11,000 Maui residents are still without power. Communications have been wiped out in some areas.

Smoke rises from the wildfire burning Thursday in Lahaina, Hawaii. (AFP/Getty Images)

Firefighters are working around the clock to contain the fires, but they are facing challenges due to the dry weather and strong winds. Hurricane Dora, which was passing hundreds of miles to the south, ignited the wildfires on Tuesday, August 9, 2023. The fires quickly spread, fanned by strong winds, and caused widespread devastation. The historic town of Lahaina was particularly hard hit, with 80% of the town destroyed.

The wildfires are a major disaster for Maui, and the recovery effort will be long and difficult. The Red Cross and other organizations are providing assistance to those who have been affected by the fires, and the community is coming together to help each other.

The Maui wildfires are a reminder of the dangers of wildfires, especially in dry and windy conditions. It is important to be prepared for wildfires, and to have a plan in place in case you need to evacuate.

The Maui wildfires are a devastating tragedy, but the community is coming together to help each other. With the help of firefighters, volunteers, and organizations like the Red Cross, the recovery effort will be successful.

Views from the air of the community of Lahaina after wildfires driven by high winds  burned across most of the town several days ago, in Lahaina, Maui, Hawaii, Aug. 10, 2023. Photo by Marco Garcia/REUTERS

The fire started on Tuesday, August 9, 2023, and quickly spread due to dry conditions and strong winds. The flames engulfed the historic town of Lahaina, as well as other areas of the island. The fire is the deadliest in Maui's history.

Firefighters are working around the clock to contain the fire, but they have been hampered by the dry weather and strong winds. The fire is expected to burn for several more days.

The Maui wildfire is a reminder of the dangers of wildfires, especially in dry and windy conditions. It is important to be prepared for wildfires, and to have a plan in place in case you need to evacuate.

Smoke and flames rise in Lahaina, Maui County, Hawaii, Aug. 8, 2023 in this still image from video obtained  from social media. Photo by Jeff Melichar/TMX via REUTERS

In addition to the deaths and destruction, the Maui wildfire has also had a significant impact on the island's economy. The tourism industry, which is a major driver of Maui's economy, has been severely disrupted by the fire. The fire has also caused widespread damage to infrastructure, including roads, bridges, and power lines.

The recovery from the Maui wildfire will be long and difficult, but the community is determined to rebuild. The island's spirit of resilience is strong, and the people of Maui will not be defeated by this tragedy.