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Hawaii wildfires: Joe Biden visits Maui and promises aid ‘for as long as it takes’

US president notes ‘overwhelming’ devastation after fire on the island killed at least 115 people

President Joe Biden speaks during a meeting with first responders and survivors at Lahaina Civic Center, Hawaii, on August 21st, 2023. Photograph: Haiyun Jiang/The New York Times

Tue Aug 22 2023 - 07:05

US president Joe Biden has told survivors of Hawaii’s wildfires the nation “grieves with you” and promised the federal government will help “for as long as it takes” to recover.

Mr Biden arrived in Maui on Monday, 13 days after fire ravaged the western part of the island, killing at least 115 people. There are 500 to 800 people still missing, according to state officials.

Standing near a severely burned 150-year-old banyan tree, the president acknowledged the “overwhelming” devastation but said that Maui would persevere through the tragedy.

“Today it’s burned but it’s still standing,” Mr Biden said of the tree. “The tree survived for a reason. I believe it’s a very powerful symbol of what we can and will do to get through this crisis.”

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US president Joe Biden has visited Maui, nearly two weeks after wildfires swept through the Hawaiian island and killed more than 114 people. Video: Reuters

Mr Biden and first lady Jill Biden got a close-up look at the devastation, seeing block after block of hollowed-out homes and other structures, charred cars, singed trees and piles of debris as his motorcade wound through Lahaina.

They spent most of their time in the historic town of 13,000 people which was almost entirely destroyed by the fire.

The Bidens lingered briefly on the tarmac after arriving at Kahului Airport where they were greeted by Hawaii governor Josh Green, his wife Jaime Green and members of Hawaii’s congressional delegation.

The president and first lady embraced each of their greeters before they boarded the Marine One helicopter for an aerial tour of the damage.

Residents of Lahaina hold signs as President Joe Biden's motorcade passes through during his visit. Photograph: Haiyun Jiang/The New York Times

The Bidens also met first responders and members of the community and were briefed by state and local officials about the ongoing response. They also participated in a blessing of his visit by island elders.

Earlier on Monday, the White House announced Mr Biden has named Bob Fenton, a regional leader at the Federal Emergency Management Agency, to be the chief federal response co-ordinator for the Maui wildfires, overseeing the long-term recovery.

“We’re going to rebuild the way the people of Maui want to rebuild,” said Mr Biden, adding that his administration would focus on respecting sacred lands, cultures and traditions.

Dozens gathered on the streets of Lahaina to watch Mr Biden’s motorcade wind its way through the community. Some greeted the president enthusiastically, but others appeared to be waving their middle fingers at the motorcade.

Other island residents held up signs urging Biden “to listen to the people of Lahaina” and to send more aid.

During a community event at Lahaina’s civic centre, Mr Biden praised the “remarkable resilience” he said he saw during his few hours in the community. – AP

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