Maui Fire Tragedy: Death Toll Rises, Relief Efforts Begin

The death toll from the Lahaina fire in Maui has risen to 114, with 78% of the burn area searched. The Maui Fire Department reported that the fire is now 90% contained after burning 2,168 acres and over 2,000 structures. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has deployed over 1,000 responders to assist with the disaster and has provided over $5.6 million in assistance to nearly 2,000 households. President Joe Biden has authorized increased federal funding for emergency work in Hawaii. The U.S. Small Business Administration has opened a Disaster Business Recovery Center for affected residents to seek financial assistance.