Maui wildfire among worst in U.S. history infographic
Graphic charts the United States’ deadliest wildfires.
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DISASTER

Hawaii wildfire is one of the deadliest in U.S. history

By Ninian Carter

August 14, 2023 - The wildfires that destroyed the town of Lahaina are the deadliest in the U.S. in over a century, with the toll expected to rise significantly.

In the aftermath of deadly wildfires on the island of Maui in Hawaii, the island’s governor, Josh Green, has warned of a significant death toll rise in the coming days – likening the resort town of Lahaina to a war zone.

According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), in 2022 there were 66,255 wildfires in the United States, compared with 18,229 in 1983.

It believes a key driver in the rise is climate change, which has brought increased heat and extended droughts.

The Peshtigo fire in northeastern Wisconsin of 1871, remains the worst wildfire in U.S. history, killing 1,152 people.

Sources
PUBLISHED: 14/08/2023; STORY: Graphic News; PICTURES: Getty Images
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