Maui Wildfire Update – September 15 as of 12 p.m.
Aloha,
Here are the latest Maui wildfire news, updates, and resources you need to know.
The state prepares to transition displaced residents from hotels to longer-term housing ahead of West Maui reopening.
- Fire survivors must register by 5 p.m. today for the emergency lodging program run by the Red Cross and the state of Hawai‘i and funded by FEMA.
- West Maui will reopen on Oct. 8, but some have expressed concern about how the state will house the thousands of displaced residents living in hotels. Governor Green says they will consolidate the number of hotels dedicated to sheltering people and move residents into longer-term rentals and Airbnbs.
- Amid lawsuits, criticism and calls for Lahaina-led rebuilding, the governor plans to issue a second emergency housing proclamation that balances the need to quickly create affordable housing while remaining mindful of concerns.
FEMA receives questions from the House Oversight and Accountability Committee as it continues to support Maui recovery efforts.
- The House Oversight and Accountability Committee sent a letter to FEMA’s top administrator questioning its response to the Maui wildfires, including what options are available for temporary housing and the cost of the accommodations for FEMA employees.
- Disinformation campaigns fueled distrust of the government and FEMA, discouraging people from signing up for aid.
- Meanwhile, FEMA is looking to hire locally for temporary positions for its Maui disaster response and recovery efforts.
Maui tourism struggles to bounce back as officials urge travelers to return.
- Some airlines are temporarily suspending or reevaluating service to Kahului. Statistics from Hawai‘i’s Department of Business, Economic Development & Tourism show that domestic passenger counts so far in September are averaging between 2,000 and 3,000 a day — less than half of the September 2022 average.
- Organizers announced that the popular Maui Invitational will be held in Honolulu this year because of the devastating Lahaina wildfires. The tournament typically generates $16 million in visitor spending.
- Residents have differing opinions about when to reopen West Maui. While most understand the need for the economic boost, some say Oct. 8 is too early to welcome visitors back.
Here are a few more ways you can support Maui’s recovery:
- Young Brothers will match up to $125,000 in donations to the Hawai‘i Foodbank. You can donate by clicking here. The company continues to prioritize shipping relief cargo to the Port of Kahului.
- O‘ahu chefs have teamed up to raise money to help with relief efforts on Maui. “Chefs for Hope” will feature over 30 food and beverage stations at the Blaisdell this evening.
- Keiki O Ka ‘Āina’s Adopt-a-Family is accepting donations for those affected by the Maui fires through the Laulima Giving Program.
Mahalo nui loa,
Your BG Team