Buzz
In recent times, Hawaiian officials have urged tourists to refrain from traveling to Maui after the wildfire disaster to make room for local residents.
Hawaii Calls on Tourists to Stay Away from Maui
Tourists are not only urged to quickly leave Maui, but authorities also recommend rearranging their plans to visit here during this time and in the coming months. Instead, people should seek alternative accommodations as many hotels in the area are needed for those who have almost lost all their possessions in the fire. Currently, many hotels on the west side of the island have stopped accepting bookings, according to the Hawaii Tourism Authority.
On August 12, Hawaiian Hollywood star Jason Momoa also issued a warning to tourists not to come to the island at this time. The devastation of the wildfires will have long-term impacts on the resources of Maui. The place needs time to heal from the sorrows, losses, and recovery.
According to the Hawaii Tourism Authority, most tourists have heeded the call to leave the island. Nearly 46,000 residents and tourists have departed from Kahului Airport, on the west side of Maui, as wildfires completely ravaged the historic town of Lahaina. Currently, the death toll from the wildfires has risen to 93, according to Hawaii Governor Josh Green.
Governor Green announced plans to provide 1,000 hotel rooms for evacuees and responders. Currently, there are 4,500 people in need of shelter. The state seeks collaboration with Airbnb to ensure housing for locals. Green hopes those who lost homes will receive 3-9 months of rent support.
Maui Police Chief John Pelletier stated that K-9 units have only covered 3% of the search area as of August 12th. 'We need to control an area of at least 13 km2, which currently holds many of our loved ones and families,' Pelletier said.
According to Monster
***
Reference: Mytour Travel Guide
MytourSeptember 7, 2023
