Terrifying scenes unfolded in Lahaina, where tourists were forced to leap into the sea and tread water for hours in a desperate bid to escape the encroaching flames. The impact has been immense, resulting in the evacuation of tens of thousands of visitors while leaving 11,000 residents on the western part of the island without electricity.

Firefighters have been waging a relentless battle to contain the wildfires that ignited on Tuesday, fueled by the winds trailing in the wake of Hurricane Dora. The U.S. President, Joe Biden, has responded by issuing a “major disaster declaration,” unlocking funds to support recovery efforts.

In a statement, the White House expressed: “Today, President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. declared that a major disaster exists in the State of Hawaii and ordered Federal aid to supplement state and local recovery efforts in the areas affected by wildfires beginning on August 8, 2023, and continuing.”

The assistance offered ranges from grants for temporary housing and home repairs to low-cost loans for uninsured property losses. The declaration also encompasses financial support for state and local governments, private nonprofit organizations, and debris removal.

FEMA's Maona N. Ngwira has been assigned to coordinate the Federal recovery operations in the affected regions. While damage assessments continue, the government's commitment remains steadfast, with additional forms of aid potentially being earmarked following the comprehensive assessments. (ILKHA)