Already a subscriber? Make sure to log into your account before viewing this content. You can access your account by hitting the “login” button on the top right corner. Still unable to see the content after signing in? Make sure your card on file is up-to-date.
Government officials have released a report that has determined sparks from broken power lines caused the 2023 Lahaina fire.
Let’s bring you up to speed: The Lahaina fire, which occurred on August 8, 2023, resulted in the deaths of 102 people, including children. According to officials, the fire destroyed over 2,200 structures and displaced 12,000 people.
What the report said: The report, released by the ATF and Maui Fire Department, concluded that the fire was caused by the re-energization of downed power lines, which ignited overgrown and unmaintained vegetation. Investigators stated that the initial fire began at 6:34 AM near Lahainaluna Road, with firefighters successfully extinguishing it later that morning. Despite putting the fire out, strong winds came through the area later in the day, triggering a ‘rekindle event,’ where material in a nearby gully reignited, causing the second fire. The report classified the fire as ‘accidental.’
Electrical company comments: In a brief statement, the Hawaiian Electric Company said, “We deeply regret that our operations contributed to the fire that ignited in the morning. Confronted by an extraordinary weather event and a chaotic situation, our employees brought their best efforts to their jobs, as they do every day.”
Criticism: The response to the fire by local, state, and federal governments has faced significant criticism from locals. The local government has been blamed for its handling of the fire, including delays in evacuation orders. Many residents expressed frustration that Hawaii’s emergency sirens, part of the state’s early warning system, were not activated, leaving people unaware of the approaching danger. Additionally, the state and federal governments have been criticized for their response to the aftermath, with many claiming that aid took days to arrive.
