These two satellite images, taken on August 3 and 13, 2023, show the coastal city of Lahaina, located on the western tip of the island of Maui (Hawaii archipelago, United States), before and after a devastating fire.

Between August 8 and 9, 2023, flames spread rapidly through Lahaina, claiming the lives of more than a hundred people. Nearly 2,000 buildings were destroyed and more than 10,000 people were forced to flee their homes.  

According to an investigation involving the Maui Fire Department, sparks from faulty power lines ignited brush in a residential neighborhood. Although the fire was initially brought under control by firefighters, it reignited after they withdrew, thinking it had been extinguished. Hurricane-force winds helped spread the flames, which reduced the historic capital of Maui to ashes.

2023: Planet Labs.
2023: Planet Labs.