At least 36 people have died as a result of the swiftly spreading flames that are ravaging the Hawaiian island of Maui, according to authorities.
The fires were fueled by strong winds from a neighbouring cyclone, which led to the total burning of numerous regions and the destruction of hundreds of buildings.
An emergency has been declared on the island, forcing thousands of people to abandon their homes.
Several people are still missing despite the extensive search and rescue efforts.
“We barely made it out in time,” claimed Kamuela Kawaakoa, who arrived at an evacuation shelter on Tuesday with his partner and 6-year-old kid.
The man remarked, “It was so difficult to watch my town burn to ashes and not be able to do anything.” I was defenceless.
There are currently five active evacuation shelters on Maui; according to earlier reports, they were “overrun” with people. The island, a popular tourist site, has been warned against by visitors.
Sylvia Luke, the lieutenant governor of Hawaii, told the press, “This is not a safe place to be.” Taxes are levied on the resources we have.
Firefighters are still putting out active fires by utilising helicopters to drop water on them from above.
When this breaking news article is updated, more information will be disclosed.