The president looked out of the helicopter. From high above Hawaii, Joe Biden could see where wildfires burned in Maui. He described the damage as “overwhelming.”
Wildfires burned the island of Maui in early August. On August 8, winds spread the flames through Lahaina. More than 100 people died. Hundreds are still missing. On August 21, President Biden flew to Hawaii. He went to visit the disaster zone.
Hawaiians waited for President Biden. They held signs. One said, “Lahaina needs relief NOW.” Another said, “Mr. President, listen to the people.” A few signs said, “Lahaina Strong.”
President Biden walked through Lahaina. In 1802, Lahaina became the capital of the Hawaiian Kingdom. It was the center of Hawaiian government for about 50 years. The United States took control of Hawaii in 1898. Now many of its historic buildings are gone.
Biden met local leaders in Lahaina. That includes Hawaii’s governor, Josh Green. Biden thanked the who helped people. Officials have given food, water, and blankets to those in need. However, many Maui still have no power. The fire destroyed a school.
President Biden offered support for Hawaii’s communities. He explained that in a speech in Lahaina. “The entire country is here for you,” said Biden. “We’re going to get it done for you.” Biden vowed to listen to the locals to “get it done the way you want it done.”
Hawaii’s fires have forever changed the state. It will take years to build back. President Biden made a promise: “I will do everything in my power to help Maui recover and rebuild.”
Updated August 22, 2023, 5:01 P.M. (ET)
By Russell Kahn (Russ)
