The recent wildfires in Hawaii have resulted in immense destruction, leaving at least 96 people dead and causing $5.6 billion in damages. This unprecedented natural disaster is not only the deadliest blaze in the United States in over a century but also the most severe in Hawaii’s history.

The death toll is anticipated to rise as search and rescue operations continue. Maui Police Chief John Pelletier informed that only a small fraction, 3%, of the affected area in the historic town of Lahaina has been thoroughly searched by search dogs so far. The process of identifying the remains of the victims is extremely meticulous, involving the use of rapid DNA tests due to the intense heat of the fire that even melted metal. Pelletier urged families with missing loved ones to undergo DNA testing to aid in the identification process.

While there is a desire for prompt information, Pelletier emphasized the importance of conducting the search correctly, ensuring respect and dignity for the victims. He referred to the Hawaiian concept of “Pono,” meaning righteousness and doing what is right.

Hawaii Governor Josh Green stated in a video message that approximately 2,700 buildings were destroyed in Lahaina, with an estimated value of $5.6 billion. Green described the fire as a “fire hurricane” that rapidly advanced at a rate of one mile per minute, accompanied by temperatures as high as 1,000 degrees Fahrenheit.

Green attributed the conditions conducive to the fire’s spread to global warming. The state was experiencing drought conditions prior to the fire, and strong winds resulting from Hurricane Dora in the vicinity further exacerbated the situation.

The fire in Maui began during the late hours of Tuesday, with multiple fires igniting simultaneously. Although one fire was believed to be extinguished, it appears it was not fully extinguished, leading to its reignition. The blaze then rapidly spread due to strong gusts of wind reaching speeds of up to 81 miles per hour.

The Lahaina fire is currently 85% contained, while the Upcountry fire is 60% contained, and the Pulehu/Kihei fire is fully contained, according to Maui County officials. These wildfires mark the deadliest in the United States since the 1918 Cloquet Fire in Minnesota, which claimed the lives of hundreds of people.

Authorities have issued warnings regarding the safety of drinking water in Lahaina and various parts of Upper Kula due to contamination. Bottled water is advised for all drinking purposes, including brushing teeth, making ice, and food preparation.

Authorities in Hawaii have faced criticism for a perceived lack of promptness in alerting the public about the catastrophic blaze. The Hawaii Emergency Services Administration confirmed that warning sirens were not activated during the fire. However, alternative alert systems were employed, including mobile devices, radio and television broadcasts, and Maui County’s opt-in alert system.

In response to the wildfires, Governor Green has called for a comprehensive review led by the state attorney general to assess the decisions made during the emergency. The governor also highlighted the significant destruction of telecommunications infrastructure caused by the disaster.

Last week, President Joe Biden declared a major disaster in Hawaii, prompting the deployment of over 400 personnel from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to assist in relief efforts.

Furthermore, Governor Green alerted the public to the presence of heavy metals and other toxins in the dust resulting from the debris in Lahaina. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is actively involved in the removal of toxic debris to mitigate health risks.

As a response to the situation, the Health and Human Services Department declared a public health emergency in Hawaii on Friday.