Death toll from Hawaii wildfires rises to 36
As of Thursday morning, the death toll of the Maui wildfires has risen to 36 people, CNN reports.
The fires have destroyed hundreds of structures in Maui, including homes and businesses with thousands of people being displaced.
More than 11,000 people visiting the island were flown out of Maui Wednesday, with more expected to leave early Thursday morning. Over 600 people are staying overnight at Kahului airport while they wait for early morning flights.
Several military helicopters have been sent to the Big island and Maui to help firefighting and search and rescue efforts, according to CNN.
Military helicopters have dropped over 150,000 gallons of water over Maui to try and contain the fires,
Power outages remain an issue as 10,000 people remain without power in Maui along with widespread cellular outages.
As of Wednesday evening the U.S. coast guard was deployed to help 14 people in Lahaina who fled into the water for safety due to the fires.
Survivors were picked up on a 45 foot boat and are in stable condition.
The Hawaii Community Foundation's Maui Strong Fund is now being used to help those affected by the fires.
According to the city of Maui the best ways to help those on the island is to donate to the Maui Food Bank, the Maui Humane Society, and Maui Rapid Response.
