Maui firefighters battling multiple blazes, including on Front Street in Lahaina

August 8, 2023, 10:26 PM HST * Updated August 8, 11:41 PM

Fire in downtown Lahaina on Maui viewed from offshore on Aug. 8, 2023. (Photo Credit: Annalise Johnson)

Firefighters on Maui have been battling wildfires and structure fires on Tuesday in Kīhei, Wailuku, Upcountry and Lahaina, including on the main tourist drag of Front Street. The fires are not contained, fueled by high winds and dry air as a result of Hurricane Dora.

And those hazardous conditions for fire will continue through Wednesday.

Maui Mayor Richard Bissen issued an emergency proclamation in response to the fires and has requested National Guard support.

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Communication has been difficult with cell service down in much of West Maui.

The Coast Guard has been responding to impacted areas where residents are entering the ocean due to smoke and fire conditions. At least 12 people were transported by the Coast Guard to safe areas. 

Lahaina fire on Maui on Aug. 8, 2023. (Photo Credit: Annalise Johnson)

A firefighter who was responding to the West Maui fire has experienced smoke inhalation and was taken to Maui Memorial Medical Center. He is in stable condition.

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Hononoapiʻilani Highway that connects West Maui to Central Maui remains open to outbound traffic only as people flee the fire. Motorists should expect heavy traffic. 

Multiple evacuation orders are in place throughout the island. Houses and businesses have been destroyed, but no details on the extent on damages are available.