Search crews using cadaver dogs scoured through 25% of the Lahaina disaster zone from the Maui wildfires, locating the remains of a 99th fatality on Monday, but hundreds more people may still be missing nearly a week later, news agency Reuters reported. An inferno scorching at temperatures the governor estimated hit 1,000 degrees Fahrenheit (538 degrees Celsius) swept from the parched plains outside town into the ancient tourist town of Lahaina last Tuesday, turning block after block into ash.In more than a century, the most destructive wildfire in the United States burned or damaged over 2,200 structures, 86% of which were residential, inflicting an estimated $5.5 billion in damage.
Recognising the anguish of survivors still searching for their loved ones, Maui County Police Chief John Pelletier told a press conference that local, state, and federal rescue officials were working as quickly as could, but that there was a “reverence” that slowed the process.
“It’s not just ash on your clothing when you take it off. It’s our loved ones,” Pelletier was quoted by Reuters in its report. Pelletier stated that the officials have planned to complete 85% to 90% of the disaster zone by this weekend. A squad that began with one cadaver dog has grown to include 20. “Patience. Prayers.
