The Lahaina Fire Incident Analysis Report, released on September 13, 2024, by the Attorney General of Hawaiʻi, is the second in a series of three comprehensive reports that delve into the tragic wildfire that devastated Lahaina, Hawaiʻi, on August 8-9, 2023. This report, prepared by the Fire Safety Research Institute (FSRI), part of UL Research Institutes, focuses on a detailed analysis of the circumstances surrounding the fire, with an emphasis on events that occurred before, during, and immediately after the disaster.

This report aims to provide a thorough understanding of the fire through a systems analysis methodology that evaluates the complex interactions between environmental conditions, human activities, and established policies. The analysis has identified 84 key findings and produced 140 actionable recommendations intended to improve wildfire management and preparedness in Hawaiʻi.

The final Phase Three report will build on these findings, focusing on broader preventive measures and risk management strategies aimed at ensuring that such a tragedy never occurs again in Hawaiʻi.

The Lahaina Fire: An Overview

On August 8-9, 2023, a catastrophic wildfire swept through Lahaina, a historic town on the island of Maui, resulting in unprecedented loss of life, property, and cultural heritage. The fire’s rapid spread was fueled by a combination of severe weather conditions, including high winds and drought, as well as infrastructural and preparedness shortcomings. The scale of the disaster prompted an immediate response from state and federal agencies, leading to the commissioning of a series of independent reports to assess what went wrong and how future tragedies can be prevented.

Focus and Time Frame

The report examines the events from 2:55 p.m. on August 8, 2023, to 8:30 a.m. on August 9, 2023. This critical period captures the initial ignition of the fire, its rapid spread, and the subsequent emergency response. By focusing on this time frame, the report seeks to identify the key factors that influenced the fire’s progression and the effectiveness of the response.

In addition, the report includes data from three other fires that occurred on Maui during the same period. This provides a comparative context, helping to highlight the specific challenges faced in Lahaina. The report’s recommendations are designed to align with the National Cohesive Wildland Fire Management Strategy, which emphasizes the importance of creating resilient landscapes, fire-adapted communities, and effective response capabilities.

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