Summary:
- At least two people have died in the eastern Washington wildfires, with hundreds of buildings destroyed.
- The gray fire, fueled by dry conditions, has caused the closure of Interstate 90 in Spokane.
- New video footage from Maui showcases the dangerous conditions faced by firefighters battling the flames.
- President Biden is visiting the affected areas to meet survivors and assure them of federal support.
- Local residents criticize the federal response and relief efforts following the wildfires.
- Despite the devastation, there are signs of hope and resilience in the community, including the survival of an iconic Banyan tree.
This morning, the wildfire emergency in eastern Washington turning more deadly. At least two people have now died and hundreds of buildings are destroyed as three fires burn out of control.
Fueled by Dry Conditions
The largest fire, known as the gray fire, is being fueled by dry grass and wheat fields, forcing the closing of Interstate 90 in Spokane.
Rapid Fire Spread
These fires have been horrendous, with the aridity and wind causing one fire to move seven miles in a single afternoon.
Evacuations and Loss
Thousands of people have been forced to evacuate, and many, upon returning to the town of Silver Lake, discovered they've lost everything, including their homes.
Wildfires in Maui
New video footage has emerged of the wildfires on Maui, revealing the dangerous conditions firefighters faced as they battled the historic town of Lahaina engulfed by flames.
Emotional Fire Chief
Maui's fire chief, in his first national interview since the fires, became emotional as he expressed the toll these fires have taken on his firefighters and community.
Search Efforts and Presidential Visit
Officials report that 85 percent of the destroyed area on Maui has been searched. President Biden is scheduled to visit the affected areas today to meet with survivors, listen to their stories, and provide reassurance of federal support.
Criticism and Hope
Local residents have criticized the federal response, including FEMA's announcement of $700 relief checks, which many consider insufficient for rebuilding their lives. Despite the challenges, there remains hope and resilience within the community.
Iconic Tree Survives
An iconic 150-year-old Banyan tree in the area has survived the wildfires and is undergoing life-saving treatment, according to experts.
Ongoing Recovery Efforts
Five more fire victims were identified recently, and FEMA has distributed nearly $4 million to around 1,600 Maui residents affected by the fires.
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