United States President Joe Biden today declared a state of catastrophe in the North American archipelago of Hawaii, hit by fires that devastated a town on the island of Maui and caused the deaths of at least 36 people.
The move by the head of state will free up significant federal support for the archipelago, the US presidency stressed in a statement quoted by the France-Presse agency (AFP).
The aid finances emergency aid and reconstruction on the island.
Thousands of people are being evacuated from the island of Maui due to wildfires as emergency services continue to fight the fires and search for victims.
The most recent balance showed 36 deaths.
Authorities urged residents and visitors to evacuate the island of Maui “as soon as possible” given the limited resources to deal with this crisis.
While several Hawaiian islands have been hit, Maui has been the hardest hit, with about 11,000 people evacuated Friday, while another 1,500 are expected to leave the island today.
Airlines offer low fares to encourage people to leave and arrange new flights from Maui.
The images show completely devastated areas, especially in towns like Lahaina, a historic town in West Maui and one of the most touristy areas on the island.
“Pretty much the entire city burned down, the entire historic area, homes and businesses,” Richie Olsten, director of operations for Air Maui Helicopters, told CNN.
The US president had already determined on Wednesday evening that federal resources will provide aid to the archipelago.
According to authorities, the severe drought that has ravaged the islands in recent months and the strong winds from Hurricane Dora have caused the flames to spread much more quickly.
Source: DN
