Nguồn ảnh:https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2023/dec/18/maui-hawaii-wildfire-residents-displaced-tourism
Hỏa hoạn tàn phá Maui, Hawaii: Dân cư bị di tản, ngành du lịch chịu ảnh hưởng
Breath-taking, paradise-like Maui, a popular tourist destination in beautiful Hawaii, has been ravaged by a devastating wildfire, leaving local residents displaced and the tourism industry heavily affected.
According to the recent report from The Guardian, the fire broke out on December 18, 2023, spreading rapidly across the island. As a result, thousands of residents were forced to evacuate their homes, seeking refuge in emergency shelters set up by local authorities. The situation is further complicated by the holiday season, which has made finding alternative accommodation even more challenging for those affected.
The wildfire’s impact has been felt on multiple fronts, particularly for the tourism sector, which sustains Maui’s economy. Due to the fire’s extensive destruction, several iconic hotels, resorts, and vacation rental properties have been damaged or closed for repairs, leading to a significant drop in available tourist accommodations. As a result, many visitors have had to cancel their vacation plans, causing a severe blow to the island’s tourism industry.
Local businesses in the affected areas, including restaurants, shops, and excursion services, have also suffered from the decreased tourist activity. The reduced foot traffic and canceled bookings have resulted in financial losses, threatening the livelihoods of countless individuals who depend on an active tourism sector.
Hawaii’s authorities, alongside local fire departments and emergency management agencies, have mobilized extensive resources to combat the wildfire. For days, firefighters have been battling the flames, working tirelessly to contain the blaze and protect the island’s residents and valuable natural resources. Air tankers and helicopters have been deployed to drop water and fire retardant, while ground crews have fought the fire head-on.
Unfortunately, the cause of the wildfire is still under investigation, leaving local residents and officials anxious for answers. In the meantime, efforts are focused on supporting those who have been displaced, finding temporary housing solutions, and assessing the full extent of the damage caused by this catastrophe.
Maui, with its pristine beaches, lush landscapes, and cultural attractions, has long been an idyllic destination for both locals and tourists. However, the recent wildfire incident and its wide-ranging impact highlight the vulnerability of such communities in the face of natural disasters. The road to recovery for both the affected individuals and the tourism industry will undoubtedly be challenging but with the resilient spirit of the people and the support from all stakeholders, Maui will regain its beauty and allure once again.