Biden declares Maui wildfires as a major disaster

President Biden has declared the wildfires in Hawaii as a major disaster, which means the federal government will provide funding to assist with rescue and recovery.

At least 36 people have died due to the wildfires in Maui.

The historic, popular town of Lahaina has had the brunt of the flames, and aerial footage shows it has been turned into a smoking ruin.

It is too early to know the extent of the damage, but officials say at least 270 buildings have been destroyed.

Thousands of tourists and residents have been evacuated to makeshift shelters.

Source: BBC