FLASH
Shkruar nga Pamfleti
One of the worst natural disasters in Hawaii's history has killed at least 55 people and wiped out the historic town of Lahaina. But what caused the devastating fires in Hawaii?
It all started with a small forest fire, although it is not yet clear what caused that fire. Firefighters were unable to extinguish the flames and on Wednesday evening the flames began to spread very quickly. Driven by extremely strong winds, the fire quickly got out of control.
Hurricane Dora, a category four storm that recently passed southwest of Hawaii, is thought by some meteorologists to have produced winds of up to 100 kilometers per hour that fueled the fires. According to some analysts, the hurricane produced exceptionally strong winds.
A dry season with low humidity
Hawaii is currently experiencing a dry season with very low humidity, making it easier for wildfires to spread. The Pacific island archipelago typically has a tropical climate, with warm, humid weather and little temperature fluctuation. Extreme heat and high humidity are prevented by normal mild winds.
The dry season begins in May, if not earlier. The rain practically stops in June and July and the temperatures rise, making it the most popular time for visitors. August and September can be particularly hot, with average daytime temperatures above 30 degrees Celsius (86 degrees Fahrenheit). Although tropical rains are possible during the dry season, hurricanes are rare.
Meteorologists, forest experts and firefighters sound the alarm when the state experiences a dangerous combination of dry vegetation, strong winds and very dry air. The US National Weather Service had issued warnings before the disaster.
Dry vegetation created a 'tinderbox'
Forest fires are generally caused by lightning, prolonged periods of heat, or human activity, whether intentional or careless. Fires can be started by a discarded cigarette just as easily.
The situation on Maui was made worse by Guinea grass, invasive vegetation that can grow as fast as 15 centimeters per day during the wet season and reach up to 3 meters in height. If left to dry, it can create a "hot box," Clay Trauernicht, a scientist at the University of Hawaii, told The Associated Press.
"In hotter conditions and drier conditions, with variable rainfall, this will only make the problem worse."
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