Maui Wildfire Recovery: Milestones, Reopenings, and Uplifting Kokua

The heart of Lahaina, the historic town on the Hawaiian island of Maui that was devastated by a deadly wildfire in August, has reopened to residents and business owners, marking an important emotional milestone. However, there is still much work to be done to clear properties of burned debris and rebuild. Test results have confirmed that the ash and dust left by the fire is toxic, with high levels of arsenic and lead. The cleanup is in its early stages, with the EPA removing hazards and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers preparing to haul away debris. The state's health department has installed air monitors and is urging people to avoid outdoor activity when pollution levels are elevated.