Tag: Maui wildfire

Building Codes and Fire-Resistant Construction Become Critical for Properties

Contractors are being urged to adopt fire-resistant building practices and updated codes as wildfire risks expand beyond traditional high-risk zones, with lithium-ion battery systems creating additional fire hazards. Wildfires are increasing globally and affecting areas previously considered low-risk, requiring updated building approaches. The 2023 Maui wildfires destroyed or damaged over 2,200 buildings, highlighting vulnerability of […]

Lahaina Fire Insurance Payouts Reach $1.35 Billion as Recovery Continues

Multiple news outlets report that insurance claims from the August 2023 Maui wildfires have exceeded $1.35 billion according to the Hawaii Insurance Division. The preliminary estimates show significant residential property damage with insurers having paid out over $676 million to homeowners so far. Total wildfire insurance claims have reached $1.35 billion as of September 30, […]

Surfrider Foundation Expands Water Testing and Climate Resilience Efforts

The Surfrider Foundation Maui Chapter is expanding its water quality monitoring and climate resilience initiatives following extreme weather events including the 2023 wildfires and record-breaking storms in March 2026. The organization is working to protect ocean resources and build community partnerships for long-term environmental sustainability. March 2026 brought a 1-in-1000-year storm system that dumped 2 […]

Hawaii Governor’s Communications Director Wins National Recognition Award

Makana McClellan, Hawaii Governor’s Communications Director, became the first person from Hawaii to receive the National Association of Government Communicators’ Communicator of the Year award. She was recognized for improving state emergency communications during disasters including the 2023 Maui wildfires. McClellan is the first Hawaii resident to receive the national Communicator of the Year honor […]

Investment Fund Buys $34M Stake in Hawaiian Electric After Wildfire Settlement

Horizon Kinetics Asset Management purchased $34 million worth of Hawaiian Electric shares in May 2026, suggesting investor confidence following the utility’s Maui wildfire settlement completion. The timing appears to signal belief that the company is moving past legal challenges. Investment fund bought 2.2 million Hawaiian Electric shares worth $34 million after the utility cleared major […]

Utility Companies Face Insurance Crisis Due to Wildfire Liability

Power companies are struggling to find affordable insurance coverage after facing billions in wildfire-related lawsuits, including Hawaiian Electric after the 2023 Maui fires. This could impact utilities’ ability to fund grid improvements and infrastructure. Utility companies from Hawaii to Texas have faced tens of billions in wildfire damages linked to their equipment. Hawaiian Electric was […]

Federal Rebuild Programs for Fire Survivors Face August Deadline

Lahaina wildfire survivors have until August 31 to apply for federal reconstruction and reimbursement programs, though the county hopes to extend to December. 195 homes have been rebuilt so far from the $1.6 billion disaster relief funding. August 31 deadline approaches for reconstruction and reimbursement programs, with potential extension to December. First-time homebuyer program is […]

Documentary on Maui Off-Grid Architecture Released on YouTube

A 13-minute documentary featuring architect David Sellers and sustainable building practices on Maui has been released on YouTube. The film explores off-grid living and climate-resilient construction following the Lahaina wildfire. The documentary ‘Journey Beyond the Grid’ follows Maui-based architect David Sellers who specializes in off-grid, sustainable design. The film was shot entirely on Maui and […]

Wildfire Settlement Payouts Begin This Year But Won’t Fully Cover Losses

Maui fire survivors will receive their first settlement payments in 2026, with $550 million distributed this year from the $4 billion settlement. Economists warn the payments won’t fully compensate families for their losses, especially with rising costs. Settlement payments will boost Maui County personal income by 5.4% in 2026, the largest gain of any county. […]

Hawaii’s Economic Outlook Deteriorates as Global Oil Prices Impact Tourism

Multiple news sources report on a University of Hawaii Economic Research Organization forecast showing Hawaii’s economy facing new challenges from rising oil prices linked to U.S.-Iran conflict and ongoing storm recovery. The report indicates tourism growth will slow significantly while costs increase across sectors. UHERO’s second quarter 2026 forecast shows Hawaii’s near-term economic outlook has […]