Maui death toll rises to 55, expected to grow

The death toll from the wildfires on the island of Maui has risen to 55 and is expected to grow amid ongoing search and rescue efforts, Hawaiian officials said.

The wildfires are “likely the worst natural disaster in Hawaii state history,” and resulted in the “utter devastation” of the town of Lahaina in northwestern Maui, Hawaii Gov. Josh Green said at a press conference Thursday.

“Lahaina, with a few rare exceptions, has been burned down,” he said. “Without a doubt, it feels like a bomb was dropped on Lahaina.”

Maui officials urged people not to return to Lahaina while crews work to recover those who died in the fires.

“I know the question on your mind is when can I get back to my home,” Maui County Mayor Richard Bissen said. “Just as soon as we can try to provide the certainty that we have recovered those who have perished.”

“Understand this: Lahaina town is hallowed, sacred ground right now,” Maui Police Chief John Pelletier added. “We have to get them out. We will get them out as fast as we can, but I need your patience while we do this.”

President Biden approved a federal emergency disaster declaration for the state Thursday, freeing up additional federal funding to assist in recovery efforts. The fires started Tuesday and quickly tore across Maui, fueled by strong wind gusts from an offshore hurricane.

The Associated Press contributed.

Updated at 8:03 a.m. ET.