Forest fires still continue on the island of Maui in the state of Hawaii, the tourism paradise of the USA.
In a statement made by the island authorities, it was announced that the number of people who lost their lives in the fires increased to 67. Hundreds of people were reported missing in the deadliest natural disaster in the state’s history. It was emphasized that the number of dead may increase while the search efforts were carried out with cadaver dogs.
It was reported that the Lahaina fire, which spread from the bushes to the town, still continues, but 85 percent of it is under control. It was learned that 80 percent of one of the other two forest fires on the island and 50 percent of the other was under control. The fight against the flames continues at three different points.
The claim that “emergency sirens did not sound”
It was claimed that the emergency sirens, which aim to warn in cases such as natural disasters on the island, did not sound during the fire.
“I have instructed that a thorough investigation be launched to make sure exactly what happened,” Hawaii Governor Josh Green said in a statement to the US media.
[Fotoğraf: Reuters]
Hawaii declared disaster area
More than 14 thousand tourists were evacuated as the forest fires that started on the island of Maui on Tuesday spread gradually with the effect of Hurricane Dora.
US President Joe Biden declared Hawaii a disaster area, thus paving the way for federal aid to the island.