Images out of Maui are being described as apocalyptic after a massive wildfire, fueled by powerful winds from Hurricane Dora, has completely devastated the historic area of Lahaina. The flames spread so quickly that some residents fled into the ocean where the U.S. Coast Guard has so far rescued at least 12 individuals.
A state of emergency was declared Tuesday by acting Gov. Sylvia Luke, who said the eye of the storm was south of the island, but winds were still severely impacting the area.
"We are closely following the wildfires caused by the strong winds of Hurricane Dora," Luke said. "The safety of our residents is paramount, and this emergency proclamation will activate the Hawaii National Guard to support emergency responders in the impacted communities."
According to ABC News, more than 1,8000 acres across Maui and the Big Island have burned as of Tuesday evening, but the situation is rapidly changing.
Harrowing photos from the island are being shared on social media:
Apocalyptic scenes from the Hawaii fires on Maui pic.twitter.com/Mu0idA6gYX
— Justin Hart (@justin_hart) August 9, 2023
New video shows a massive fire raging near homes in Maui, as an emergency proclamation has been declared for Hawaii and Maui counties over dangerous wildfires. https://t.co/2KsBGPjap4 pic.twitter.com/irg2TR4bPn
— ABC News (@ABC) August 9, 2023
This is what it looked like earlier on Maui. If you've been to my hometown of Lahaina...I fear it is no longer. I dread what it will look like in the morning. An apocalyptic scene is unfolding due to the fires raging across my island. Please pray for us. pic.twitter.com/88V2kjjpyV
— HawaiiDelilah™ 🟦 (@HawaiiDelilah) August 9, 2023
This video is so wrenching. Hawaii wildfires on Maui devastate downtown Laihana and other areas. pic.twitter.com/rjqeVQH68V
— Justin Hart (@justin_hart) August 9, 2023