LAHAINA, Hawaii −The death toll from the Maui wildfire that destroyed much of this historic town surpassed 100 late Tuesday and authorities say that cadaver dogs have reached less than half the scorched homes and businesses.
Authorities began releasing the names of the dead, and Gov. Josh Green warned the death toll – 110 as of Wednesday – from the nation’s deadliest wildfire in more than century was expected to continue climbing. Asked if children are among those missing or killed, Green said, “Tragically yes. … when the bodies are smaller, we know it’s a child.”
Green said housing the displaced continues to be a primary focus of relief efforts. More than 500 hotel rooms and 1,000 Airbnb rentals were becoming available, he said, adding thousands of people will need housing for at least 36 weeks.
“All this will be covered by FEMA,” he said. “We want everyone to be able to leave the shelters and go into housing, which will take a very long time.”
President Joe Biden will head to Maui on Monday to meet with survivors and officials there, the White House announced Wednesday.
Complicating recovery efforts was a weather forecast calling for storms with rain and high winds this weekend. Officials were considering preemptively cutting power to some areas, Green said.
“Know that we will be there until the end,” Green said. “We are there with you, our hearts are with you, we are heartsick that we have had such loss.”
FEMA lends a hand,but Maui fire losses estimated in the billions; officials release first names of people killed: Aug. 15 updates
Developments:
◾As of late Tuesday, the Lahaina fire was 85% contained, the Upcountry/Kula fire was 75% contained and the Pulehu/Kihei fire was 100% contained.
◾Authorities announced major roads into the area were being opened for locals, but warned toxic byproducts from flames that spewed spewed poisonous fumes remained a major concern.
◾As of Wednesday, 38% of the impacted area has been searched, Maui County Police Chief…
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