UPDATED: August 31, 2023 at 7:30 p.m. HST
In West Maui, recent wildfires have caused immense devastation, resulting in the loss of lives, homes, cultural sites, and businesses in Lahaina. Our hearts go out to all those affected by this tragedy. As the community navigates through this difficult time, it is crucial for visitors to be mindful and respectful while exploring our beautiful island home.
The Hawaiʻi Tourism Authority (HTA) is actively working with federal, state, and county emergency management officials, as well as community partners, to coordinate recovery efforts. To support the revival of responsible travel to Maui from the United States, the HTA’s Board of Directors has approved $2.6 million in funding for the Maui Marketing Recovery Plan. This plan includes the Mālama Maui campaign, highlighting heartfelt messages from Maui’s locals. By rebuilding travel demand, we can contribute to the island’s recovery.
Contents
Governor Green’s Message: Supporting Maui’s Recovery
During a recent speech alongside President Joe Biden and the Hawaiʻi congressional delegation, Governor Josh Green emphasized the importance of avoiding West Maui for now. However, he encouraged visitors to explore the other areas of Maui and the rest of the Hawaiian Islands, as their economies rely on tourism. By choosing to travel to these safe areas, visitors can play a vital role in expediting the recovery process for those affected by the wildfires.
The Impact on West Maui
As the search and recovery efforts continue, it is crucial to respect the affected area of Lahaina by refraining from traveling to West Maui. The Governor’s sixth emergency proclamation, issued on August 19, remains in place through October 17, 2023. This proclamation strongly discourages non-essential travel to West Maui, including Lahaina, Nāpili, Kāʻanapali, and Kapalua. However, other areas of Maui, such as Kahului, Wailuku, Kīhei, Wailea, Mākena, Pāʻia, and Hāna, remain unaffected and are open for exploration.
To assist with recovery, West Maui hotels have temporarily stopped accepting future reservations, instead housing their employees, families, evacuees, and first responders. Efforts are also underway to connect vacation rental owners and operators with displaced West Maui residents in need of temporary housing.
Helping the Maui Community
If you are looking to support communities and families on Maui, consider making a financial donation through the Maui Strong Fund. Due to capacity limitations, physical donations are not currently recommended.
Essential Information
- The wildfires primarily affected Lahaina in West Maui. Avoid non-essential travel to West Maui, including Lahaina, Nāpili, Kāʻanapali, and Kapalua, until October 17, 2023.
- Other areas of Maui and the Hawaiian Islands are open for tourism and are safe to visit.
- Check with your airline for any flight changes or cancellations before heading to Kahului Airport.
- In case of medical assistance, call or text 9-1-1.
- For updates and more information, contact the Maui Emergency Management Agency at (808) 270-7285 or visit MauiStrong.hawaii.gov.
Let’s come together to support Maui’s recovery and show our aloha spirit during these challenging times. For the latest updates and official information, please refer to the mentioned channels. Together, we can help rebuild and restore the beauty of Maui.
