On Aug. 8, 2023, a wildfire swept through the coastal town of Lahaina in West Maui, Hawaii, killing more than 110 residents, and destroying more than 2000 buildings throughout the town. The grim task of retrieving the victims’ remains continues as Hawaii’s second-largest island braces for the names of the deceased and the many funerals to follow. “Heartbroken,” is the word many use to describe their emotions. The once idyllic island will grieve for years to come, others say. Most residents just want answers and clarity from local officials as to why the destruction was so deadly—and widespread. The following photos provide a glimpse of the tragedy’s aftermath, including the ongoing relief effort.
A military helicopter prepares to dump a bucket full of water on lingering hotspots from the Aug. 8 Lahaina wildfire disaster. Photo taken on Aug. 16, 2023. Allan Stein/The Epoch Times
