Washington: US President Joe Biden said on Wednesday that he has ordered the use of “all available federal resources” to combat wildfires on the island of Maui in Hawaii. At least six people have died in this fire. The President said that the Coast Guard and the Navy are also assisting in the rescue operation. Black Hawk helicopters have been provided by the Navy to combat the fire, while the Hawaii National Guard has deployed Chinook helicopters for firefighting and search and rescue operations.
Biden said the Department of Transportation is working with commercial airlines to evacuate tourists stranded on the island. At the same time, the Departments of the Interior and Agriculture “stand ready to assist in relief efforts after the fire is extinguished.” In his statement, the President expressed his “condolences to the families who have lost their loved ones” and “thanks to the brave firefighters and rescuers who continue to fight this threat.” Maui County said on social media on Wednesday afternoon that firefighters were trying to bring the fire under control in Lahaina, Pulehu and remote areas.
The county said more than 2,100 people were housed in four emergency shelters overnight while another 2,000 passengers were accommodated at Kahului Airport. Video and photos from the Lahaina tourist destination show the devastation caused by Maui’s wildfires in this historic town. (agency)