Tragedy in Maui: A review of the factors behind the Lahaina wildfires and solutions for a safer future.

Abstract

The recent fires in Lahaina, Maui, were initiated by a multitude of factors. Firstly, miscommunication and a lack of preparedness enabled the fire to spread uncontrollably: the lack of a fire evacuation plan, untimely use of sirens, and poor staff training together led to the failure to contain the fire and to evacuate residents. Secondly, Maui’s vegetation and ecology also played a significant role in facilitating the fire’s growth. Lahaina’s invasive grasses, e.g. Megathyrsus maximus (guinea grass), are extremely drought-resistant and raise flame heights when burned. This, coupled with the species’ tendency to outcompete native vegetation, fostered extremely dry and flammable land. Thirdly, most houses in Lahaina lacked adequate fireproof materials, allowing flames to spread rapidly within and between homes. The chain reaction of events triggered from the Lahaina fire highlights the need to reevaluate the variables that initially caused the fire and devise solutions for them. Solutions to the miscommunication and lack of preparedness, include effective evacuation plans, automated broadcasts, modifications to emergency protocol, and dry hydrants. The implementation of community gardening and land restoration programs can combat the issues arising from Maui’s invasive grasses. Finally, Lahaina’s infrastructure can be fortified through enhancements to fireproof technology, such as Class A roofs and wind-rated vents, and modular housing, which can provide temporary shelter to affected families. By synthesizing the factors behind the Lahaina fire as well as potential solutions, this paper identifies critical areas for future improvement and proposes suggestions for community fire protection to the Hawaiian government.