Large-scale forest fires continue in Hawaii

Large-scale wildfires are raging in the US state of Hawaii. In terms of scale, this is the deadliest natural disaster since it became a US state in 1959.

This is reported by Sky News.

At least 67 people have died. 

The fire destroyed about 1,000 buildings. The fire in the former capital of Lahaina is 85% contained, but one in Upcountry Maui is only 50% contained.

State Governor Josh Green has warned the number of fatalities will continue to rise.

It comes as investigators try to determine what caused it to sweep through Lahaina at such terrifying speed, decimating the resort with little warning. Emergency sirens are meant to warn of impending danger - but didn't go off.

Rescue officials said the speed of the blaze made it "nearly impossible" for frontline responders to communicate with officials who would normally issue evacuation orders. In addition, mobile signal outages also appear to have hindered the emergency effort.

Photo: Sky News UK