Civil Air Patrol Responds to Wildfires on Maui

Photos of devastation from air were captured by CAP crews.

Thursday, August 10, 2023 at 03:13 PM ET

Verified

On August 8, the Hawaii Wing conducted two aerial survey, capturing shocking photos and videos of the extensive damage caused by the Maui brush fires. [Courtesy Civil Air Patrol]

Key Takeaways:

The Hawaii Wing of the Civil Air Patrol (CAP) is conducting aerial reconnaissance and photography to aid in damage assessment and search and rescue operations for the devastating Maui wildfires.
Fueled by strong winds from Hurricane Dora and dry conditions, the rapidly spreading fires have caused widespread destruction, particularly in Lahaina, leading to over 36 fatalities and hundreds displaced.
CAP's critical aerial imagery, captured once winds subsided, is being used to document extensive devastation and guide response efforts for what is the deadliest U.S. fire since 2018.

See a mistake? Contact us.

The Hawaii Wing of the Civil Air Patrol has been pressed into service to help fight the devastating wildfires on the island of Maui. The CAP has been providing aerial reconnaissance of the fast-moving blaze that has killed more than 36 people and displaced hundreds more.

The fire broke out on Tuesday, August 8, and is being pushed by strong winds generated by an approaching Category 4 Hurricane Dora. The cause of the fire has not been determined. However, state officials and the national weather service note that Hawaii has been under a red flag warning because of dry conditions and high winds, which heighten fire danger.