Maui Emergency Management Agency chief Herman Andaya also resigned amid criticism over the decision of the Maui-based emergency agency not to use sirens in the deadly Lahaina wildfires, which killed many people and caused much destruction. This develops on top of water shortages and blocked evacuation routes, which have been under intense public scrutiny. Despite undisclosed health reasons, the mayor accepted Andaya’s resignation, vowing to fill the position promptly.

With no warning sirens to warn of their absence during the fires, widespread questions about their effectiveness have precipitated Andaya to explain concerns over potential evacuation routes. Hawaii’s Attorney General, Anne Lopez, has announced an impartial review with the goal of enhancing emergency preparedness.

As the search for those missing remains, communities affected by this are trying to reconstruct and recover. The causes of these deadly fires—the worst in over a century in the US—remain under investigation. While all this is taking place, state lawmakers address concerns about utility practices, rebuilding plans, and protecting local landowners from opportunistic buyers.

Amidst all this comes togetherness among residents, who have rallied around each other to support one another as they rebuild their lives. With wildfire aftermath leading to reflection on emergency protocols and what constitutes an effective disaster management strategy.