Lahaina Maui Takes Steps Towards Healing: Lahaina, a historic town in Maui, Hawaii, recently reopened its heart to residents and business owners with day passes following a devastating wildfire that claimed at least 100 lives on August 8. The reopening signifies an important emotional step for the victims, though there’s still much work ahead to clear properties of debris and rebuild.
Key spots like Banyan Tree Park, home to a 150-year-old tree that survived the fire and is now sprouting new leaves, Lahaina’s public library, an elementary school, and popular restaurants are now accessible. Additionally, a section of Front Street, where the fire tore through a traffic jam during the evacuation, reopened last Friday.
While the reopening is a positive development, authorities emphasize the need for people entering scorched areas to wear protective gear due to potential hazards. Recent test results from the state Department of Health confirmed that the ash and dust left by the fire are toxic, with arsenic being a significant concern. Arsenic, a heavy metal, adheres to wildfire dust and ash.
The cleanup is just getting underway. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has spent the last few months clearing hazardous materials such as batteries, propane tanks, and pesticides from the town’s more than 2,000 damaged buildings. Locals and business ownersoften clad in white full-body suits, masks, and glovesare permitted to visit their properties once the EPA has finished the clearance process.
After obtaining the owners’ consent, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers plans to start removing the leftover debris and bringing it to a landfill.
In response to the fire’s aftermath, the EPA and the state’s health department have installed 53 air monitors in Lahaina and Upcountry Maui, where a separate fire destroyed homes in early August. The health department advises people to avoid outdoor activities when monitor levels indicate elevated air pollution and to keep windows and doors closed.
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Our Reader’s Queries
How is Maui recovering?
Maui saw a significant drop in visitors after the August wildfires, but the recovery has been quicker than expected. In October, arrival numbers were at 60% compared to the previous year, and by November, they had already reached 80%.
What is the importance of Lahaina?
Lahaina, a place of great historical significance, was once the first capital of the Hawaiian Kingdom. According to Carmen Lindsey, the chairwoman of the Office of Hawaiian Affairs, Lahaina boasts a wealth of culturally significant properties and sacred remnants that hold immense historical value for our ancestors.
What activity makes the village of Lahaina on the island of Maui such a popular tourist destination?
Experience the ultimate whale watching spot in Lahaina, Hawaii, with a front-row seat to the stunning Au’au Channel. From December to April, witness the majestic humpback whales in their natural habitat.
Is it ok to go to Maui now?
Apart from Lahaina, Maui is fully open for visitors to explore and enjoy. It’s important to approach your visit with aloha, compassion, and empathy, and to show respect for the local community. Supporting local businesses is also encouraged. For suggestions on where to go and what to do, check out mauinuifirst.com.