A terrible wildfire that started on the Hawaiian island of Maui on Tuesday, August 8, 2023, has left islanders and netizens distraught. Many people have expressed concern for the historic banyan tree in the town of Lahaina as the flames continue to rage, already destroying hundreds of acres.
What caused the Maui wildfire?
The roaring fires were caused by dry weather and strong winds brought on by Hurricane Dora. The rapidity with which the disaster struck damaged several homes, businesses, and the major tourist strip in Lahaina, the town hardest hit.
“Maui County has not been able to communicate with residents on the west side, the Lahaina side,” notes Lieutenant Governor Sylvia Luke, due to a lack of power, cell and phone service, and even 911 service. This generated fears about the nearby famous banyan tree.
The tree is a popular tourist attraction since it is the largest banyan tree in Hawaii and the United States, spanning 1.94 acres and containing 16 tree trunks. It was given as a seedling by Indian missionaries and planted by Lahaina’s then-mayor, William Owen Smith, in 1873.
Meteorologists debate the origins of the Maui wildfires
The wildfires were caused by a combination of weather conditions, according to Robert Bohlin, a meteorologist at the National Weather Service’s Honolulu office. “This is the time of year when we start to dry out,” Bohlin explained.
Furthermore, the regular seasonal dry, drought-like weather condition was exacerbated by weaker-than-normal trade winds that kept precipitation at bay, according to the U.S. Drought Monitor. As a result, grass and other vegetation became drier and more prone to catching fire.
Another significant element was the considerable change in atmospheric pressure between the north and south of the island, caused by Hurricane Dora (located to the south). Because of the low-pressure conditions to the south, winds that normally flow from higher to lower pressure zones became stronger. Fires spread swiftly due to the strong air currents.
“The fire could be a mile or more away from your house, but it could be at your house in a minute or two,” said Maui County fire assistant chief Jeff Giesea. Strong winds, dry vegetation, and low humidity make it even more difficult for firefighters to put out fires. Maui County spokesperson Mahina Martin noted that the strong winds prohibited helicopters from dropping water from the skies on the fires.
As photographs from the Maui blaze appear, internet users express their concern regarding the Lahaina banyan tree
As photographs from the Maui wildfires began to circulate online, netizens expressed their concern, particularly for the banyan tree and the well-being of the locals. The fate of the Lahaina banyan tree is still unknown as authorities battle the roaring fires.
The island’s mayor, Richard Bissen Jr., said in a statement that the enormous Maui wildfire has killed at least six people as authorities continue their rescue and evacuation efforts. Patients suffering from burns and smoke inhalation continue to overrun hospitals.
“Local people have lost everything… They’ve lost their house, they’ve lost their animals, and it’s devastating,” said business, economic development, and tourism director, James Kunane Tokioka.”
Several people were forced to jump into the sea to escape the raging flames. Lieutenant Governor Sylvia Luke has deployed the Hawaii National Guard and has requested that the White House declare the situation a federal emergency.