Maui firefighters continue to battle blazes in Lahaina along Front Street; homes and businesses destroyed

August 9, 2023, 9:26 AM HST * Updated August 9, 9:29 AM

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

Homes in Lahaina and multiple businesses on the main tourist drag of Front Street were lost in the wildfire overnight, Maui officials confirmed this morning. The area remains closed to the public as there are multiple fires still burning in the area.

Along with the Lahaina fire, Maui fire crews continue to battle two large wildfires: one in Pūlehu that traveled close to Kīhei; and one in Kula, which has burned more than 1,000 acres since it was first reported early Tuesday morning. The fires are not contained, fueled by high winds and dry air as a result of Hurricane Dora.

Those hazardous conditions for fire will continue through Wednesday.

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Approximately 1,800 people sheltered in place overnight at the Kahului Airport (OGG), with many west side highways closed. The Hawaiʻi Department of Transportation worked with airlines/TSA to shelter passengers for safety’s sake as wildfires continue to burn in Lahaina, Kihei and Upcountry.

At approximately 6:30 a.m., county officials reported Kihei residents were safe to return to their homes.

With the exception of Hāna High and Elementary in East Maui, all other public schools on Maui will be closed to students and staff today due to the ongoing wildfires and evacuations on the island.

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The National Guard is expected to assist with recovery efforts at some point.