The wildfires in Maui, fueled in part by Hurricane Dora, have reached catastrophic levels, leading some residents to jump into the ocean to escape the flames. The infernos have cut off 911 services and communications, leaving emergency crews unable to provide immediate assistance. The situation has overwhelmed the island's hospital system, with burn victims and people suffering from inhalation filling the facilities.

The power outage caused by the fires has affected around 14,000 homes and businesses, leaving them without electricity. Drone footage captured the widespread destruction, showing wildfires spreading near the town of Kihei.

Lahaina, a major tourist strip in Maui, has been devastated, with businesses and buildings engulfed in flames. The fire department has been overwhelmed, leaving them unable to contain the inferno. The fire conditions in Maui remain unpredictable, with erratic winds, challenging terrain, and dropping humidity making it difficult to predict the path and speed of the fire.

UPDATE: Officials in Maui Hawaii say that the intense wildfire appears to have destroyed parts of the historic town of Lahaina.

- Lahaina is well known among tourists.

- The fires have also impacted Kula, a residential area in the inland, mountainous Upcountry region and… pic.twitter.com/ii3bXiYys1

— Brian Krassenstein (@krassenstein) August 9, 2023

Maui County officials have warned that the fire can rapidly approach homes, posing a severe threat to residents. The fire damage has also extended to the Upcountry area of Maui, where a fire estimated to be 1,000 acres in size continues to burn. The passing of Hurricane Dora has contributed to the intensity of the wildfires, bringing strong and damaging winds to the region.

The combination of hurricane winds and low humidity levels has created dangerous fire weather conditions. While Dora remains at a safe distance from the islands, the high pressure system it created is exacerbating the fire situation.

Evacuations have been enforced across the Big Island of Hawaii and Maui due to the wildfires. The Coast Guard has conducted rescue operations, saving 12 individuals who were forced to flee into the ocean to escape the smoke and fire.

The Hawaii National Guard has been activated to support emergency responders in impacted communities. The wildfires have caused significant damage, destroying buildings and businesses on Front Street in Lahaina, which is a vital business hub on Maui. The fire has spread across the island, with multiple blazes in both West Maui and the inland mountainous regions.

This is what it looked like earlier on Maui. If you've been to my hometown of Lahaina...I fear it is no longer. I dread what it will look like in the morning. An apocalyptic scene is unfolding due to the fires raging across my island. Please pray for us. pic.twitter.com/88V2kjjpyV

— HawaiiDelilah™ 🟦 (@HawaiiDelilah) August 9, 2023

Firefighters face numerous challenges, including blocked roads caused by downed trees and power lines, preventing them from containing the fires effectively. Other areas in Hawaii, including the island of Oahu, have experienced power outages, downed power lines, and traffic issues due to the wildfires. The Red Cross has opened shelters to accommodate those displaced by the fires.

The Hawaii Emergency Management Agency is working to address the widespread impacts of the wildfires on multiple islands. It is crucial for residents to remain vigilant and prioritize their safety during this challenging time.

The Hawaii National Guard, emergency responders, and local authorities are working tirelessly to protect homes and evacuate residents from affected areas. The impact of the wildfires underlines the importance of preparedness and effective response strategies in the face of natural disasters.