Newsom deploys search and rescue teams to Hawaii

California Governor Gavin Newsom addresses the media at a location near the Pajaro River levee breach and the township of Pajaro, Calif., on March 15, 2023. (Ken James/California Department of Water Resources via Bay City News)

by: Bay City News

Posted: Aug 11, 2023 / 10:27 AM PDT

Updated: Aug 11, 2023 / 03:43 PM PDT

(BCN) — California Gov. Gavin Newsom said Thursday he has deployed search and rescue teams to Hawaii following devastating wildfires that struck the island of Maui. Newsom said in a news release that members of the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services have been deployed to Hawaii.

California’s Urban Search and Rescue Task Forces will also travel to the island to assist in search for survivors and recovery operations, he said.

“Californians know firsthand the devastating toll of catastrophic wildfires fueled by climate change, capable of wiping out entire communities and centuries of irreplaceable history and heritage. Our state is sending resources to support our Pacific neighbors during their time of need,” Newsom said.

Hawaii Gov. Josh Green said Wednesday the wildfires devastated most of the town of Lahaina in Maui. Dozens have died and thousands have fled their homes due to the inferno. Power outages are also widespread, Green said.

California residents have raised almost $200,000 to support families impacted by the wildfires, according to a tweet Gov. Newsom posted Friday.

“Your kindness is inspiring,” he added.