Maui wildfires update: Fires not spreading forward, despite rumors; death toll at 114

Update at 10:35 p.m. Aug. 18: Despite rumors that the fires are still raging, there has been no forward spread of any of the wildfires on Maui for several days.

The Maui Fire Department reported the night of Aug. 18 that fire activity has been limited to isolated hot spots within the existing footprint.

As mapping is refined in coming days, estimated fire acreage may be adjusted.

All fires were initially reported Aug. 8. There are no active threats at this time.

As of 9:15 p.m. Friday:

• The Olinda Fire is 85% contained and has burned an estimated 1,081 acres.
• The Kula Fire is 85% contained and has burned an estimated 202 acres.
• The Lāhainā Fire is 90% contained and has burned an estimated 2,168 acres.

When a fire is 100% contained, it does not mean it was extinguished, but instead that firefighters have the blaze fully surrounded. A fire is declared extinguished when fire personnel think there is nothing left burning.

Three additional deaths were reported by the Maui Police Department on Friday, increasing the total number of confirmed wildfire fatalities to 114. Police did not release the identities of any new individuals Friday.

As of Friday night, the Police Department reports that 78% of the area has been searched.

Original story: In a brief update just before 6 p.m. Aug. 18, the Maui Police Department reports that the total number of fatalities in the deadly Maui wildfires has increased to 114.

No additional official identifications of victims were available. Search and rescue efforts continue.

“We extend our gratitude to the community for their support and understanding during this challenging time,” police said in a press release.

A total of six victims, all of Lāhainā, have been officially identified so far:

• 71-year-old Donna Gomes.
• 71-year-old Melva Benjamin.
• 90-year-old Virginia Dofa.
• 79-year-old Alfredo Galinato.
• 74-year-old Robert Dyckman.
• 79-year-old Buddy Jantoc.

Four additional victims have been identified but are pending notification of next of kin before their names are released.