The heart of Lahaina, the historic town on the Hawaiian island of Maui devastated by a deadly wildfire in August, has reopened to local residents and business owners holding day passes. The fire killed at least 100 people, making it one of the deadliest in US history.
The renewed access marks an emotional milestone for victims, but much work remains to safely clear debris and rebuild. Reopened areas include Banyan Tree Park, home to a 150-year-old tree that is sprouting new leaves, as well as the public library, an elementary school, and popular restaurants. An oceanfront section of Front Street, where the fire trapped cars trying to escape, reopened on Friday.
Authorities recommend wearing protective clothing due to toxic ash and dust. Tests released on Sunday confirmed high levels of arsenic, a heavy metal that adheres to wildfire dust, and lead from pre-1978 paint. The US Environmental Protection Agency has been removing batteries, propane tanks, and pesticides from over 2,000 destroyed buildings.
Residents have been allowed to visit their properties after EPA clearance, often finding heirlooms in the rubble. The US Army Corps of Engineers will haul remaining debris to a landfill once property owners grant permission. Fifty-three air monitors have been installed in Lahaina and upcountry Maui, with officials urging people to avoid outdoor activity during high pollution levels.
