LAHAINA, HAWAII: In the aftermath of the devastating wildfires that incinerated numerous properties, a solitary home in West Maui has defied explanation by remaining nearly untouched by the disaster.
Surrounded by the post-apocalyptic wreckage, the two-story house stands with its white walls and red roof, defying the surrounding devastation. Even its garden maintains a hint of green amidst the ashes and charred trees.
Why is the 'Red House' trending online after the Hawaii wildfires?
This dwelling, now referred to as "The Red House That Survived Hawaii Wild Fires" on social media, has garnered a quasi-mythical status. Its resilience mirrors that of the Maria Lanakila Catholic Church in downtown Lahaina, which remains upright amidst the ruins. The wildfires have inflicted considerable damage, leaving the Lahaina town in ruins.
Maria Lanakila Catholic Church is still standing
The Maria Lanakila Catholic Church, established in 1846, stands as a testament to survival. A TikTok video shows the church's majestic stained glass and tower structure is still intact, contrasting with its smoldering surroundings. Members of the church community expressed gratitude online for the building's preservation, describing it as a beacon of hope in the midst of tragedy.
Terrence Watanabe, the pastor of St. Anthony’s parish nearby, provided insight into the local efforts to aid those affected. He mentioned that Catholic Charities in Hawaii and the national office have been contacted for assistance. Meanwhile, a fund has been initiated at St. Anthony's Parish to facilitate donations.
Lahaina's 150-year old banyan tree gives hope after Maui wildfires
Lahaina's 150-year-old banyan tree, although scorched by flames, hasn't fallen either.
Though the iconic tree's survival remains uncertain, given its historical significance, locals are glad that despite the intensity of the flames, the tree wasn't entirely burnt up.
The death toll stands at 110, with over 1,000 residents still missing. Identification efforts are ongoing but slow.
Identifying the dead has been challenging due to the nature of the burnt bodies and ashy remains. Officials have urged survivors to provide DNA samples to aid in the identification process.
Recent footage exposes the ferocity of the fires that spread through Maui at an alarming pace, fueled by gusts from Hurricane Dora.
In one video, tourists seek refuge in a swimming pool surrounded by buildings engulfed in flames. The extreme heat even led to cars being melted by the blaze, underscoring the destructive power of the wildfires.
President Joe Biden posted on X
He wrote, "Our prayers are with the people of Hawai’i – but not just our prayers. Every asset they need will be there for them."
People also reacted to Hawaii wildfires on social media, one user wrote, "I was shocked at how relatively young it is ~150 years, still a tragic loss and the surrounding community that’s been dispossessed of their homes."
Another user wrote, "I hope it’s save able- can’t believe the devastation. Just went by and took this drone photo."
