The cause of the Maui fires, which broke out on August 8, 2023, and scorched a combined 10.4 square miles, is still under debate. However, there is evidence suggesting that power lines may have played a role in starting the fires. Hawaiian Electric, the local power utility, acknowledged that its power lines fell in high winds, potentially causing the fire in the morning of August 8. Additionally, a report from The Washington Post states that Mauis first reported fire was likely caused by power lines.
Some other possible causes of the fires include:
- The spread of flammable nonnative grasses.
- Bare electrical wires and leaning poles, which were identified as potential causes of the deadly Maui fires.
County firefighters have been criticized for declaring "mission accomplished" too soon, while the fire was still spreading.
