Only 32% Of Burned Area Searched By Cadaver Dogs In Maui; Officials Urge Survivors To Submit DNA For Identification

The number of fatalities in the massive wildfires in Maui, Hawaii is expected to increase given that only 32% of the affected areas was searched by cadaver dogs.

(Photo : Getty Images/Justin Sullivan)

According to the County of Maui, the number of deaths is already at 106, with authorities already identifying the fatalities and notifying their relatives about the fate of their loved ones.

"Our hearts go out to the families, friends and community affected by this devastating event," Mayor Richard Bissen said in a press release.

"We offer our deepest condolences to the families who are beginning to receive notifications about their loved ones. As a community, we offer our prayers of comfort in this most difficult time," Bissen added.

Officials from the County of Maui and the Maui Police Department have been working with their assisting partners to ensure that proper protocols are followed while notifying the families of the victims of the deadly blaze.

Furthermore, the County of Maui's priority is to handle the unfortunate situation with the utmost sensitivity and respect for those who are grieving for their loss.

DNA submission

Authorities have been urging Maui residents, who have missing relatives and loved ones, to submit their DNA for an easy process of identifying those who have perished in the disaster.

Authorities said that 13 DNA profiles have been obtained from the fatalities while 41 DNA samples have been obtained from the relatives and loved ones of missing people.

Those who wish to provide DNA samples could go to the Family Assistance Center, which is open daily from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. at the Kahului Community Center, 275 Uhu Street.

When it comes to containing the massive blaze, firefighters said the blaze in Upcountry/Kula fire was already 60% contained, with an estimate of 678 acres.

Authorities have said hot spots in gulches, forests and other hard to reach places, including the land divisions and fences, could make the establishment of complete control lines difficult.

Meanwhile, the fire in Lahaina was already 85% contained, with an estimate of 2,170 acres. Multiple firefighting personnel have been assigned to monitor and address any flareups. There are no active threats as of posting time.

On the other hand, firefighters already contained the Pulehu/Kihei fire. Still, fire personnel are staying in the area and are remaining vigilant for possible flare-ups. There are no active threats at this time.

When it comes to road closures, Bissen and Governor John Green said the road to Lahaina, Honoapiʻilani Highway at Maʻalaea, would be open starting at 6 p.m. of August 15, to West Maui residents, first responders and West Maui employees.

Meanwhile, beginning August 16, Wednesday, the road to Lahaina will be opened to all motorists daily from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Support from Biden

United States President Joe Biden reached to concerned authorities to discuss Hawaii's recovery responses following the deadliest wildfire in a century.

"I reassured the Governor that Hawai'i will continue to have everything it needs from the federal government, and directed Administrator Criswell to keep surging resources and personnel as long as it takes," Biden said.

"Every asset they need will be there for them," Biden added.