Trois Ono
One month has passed since the Maui wildfires but its origin remains a subject of ongoing debate. There is no debate, however, about the sheer destruction the wildfires unleashed upon the historic town of Lahaina. The death toll reached 97 and citizens are still in severe condition, recovering from burns and other fire-related injuries. We were able to connect with a victim of the relentless fires who, for personal reasons, wishes to be kept anonymous.
What was going through your mind as it unfolded?
“The day the fires started I was actually at church so I didn’t see anything until we walked out at night after service. We all looked up at the sky and it almost looked red and lit up. The air was thick with smoke and we were all really confused. There was nothing posted anywhere at that time but closer to midnight they finally had it on the news where they told us exactly where all the fires were happening. It was pretty scary at first because they were popping up all over the island and when I walked outside my house at around 12:30 AM, I could see it pretty clearly getting closer. We still have no clue how it started but I just know as it was unfolding I had many concerns for the people that lived there and my family.”
Can you share any stories of resilience that you’ve witnessed during and after the fire?
“Throughout this tragedy, I have really learned what it means to be a unified community. Our whole island is really coming together to help support one another in any and every way. My job as a receptionist has also given me the great privilege to see firsthand the generosity, prayers, and care that people have for us from all around the world. I had people calling from other countries and all across the United States, I was in total awe of how many people were ready to give and how quickly everyone came together. We had an overwhelming amount of volunteers and donors who were ready to serve and sacrifice their time and resources to help the displaced. My heart is so full seeing all the love from everyone and I’m truly grateful.”
How do you think this forest fire might impact your relationship with the environment and perception of wildfire risks in the future?
“Maui is actually known for having a lot of bush fires but I don’t think it’s ever really been addressed. Normally it gets contained pretty quickly so we never really think about it but after this horrific event everyone is paying more attention to it. I have seen a lot more action take place towards our land now as they try to find ways to prevent this tragedy from happening again, Though we’re still far away from having a solid solution, I think it’s a very eye-opening event to help us create a strategy to make sure our people and island are safe.”
Despite the devastation wrought by the Maui wildfires, the indomitable spirit of its residents has continued to shine brightly. Maui evacuees, though scarred by the traumatic experiences, have begun returning to their homes as part of the re-entry plan. Although the recovery process may be arduous in the weeks ahead, Lahaina remains a united, undaunted community.
Trois Ono