(LAHAINA, HAWAII) - “It’s like a war zone,” said Honolulu Local 1260 Business Manager Leroy Chincio, who also represents the Seventh District on the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) International Executive Council. “We’ve dealt with hurricanes, lava, other natural disasters, but nothing of this magnitude, and with so many people suffering.”

The fires that ravaged the historic town of Lahaina on Maui’s West Coast, as well as Kula farther inland, killed more than 100 people, with roughly 400 still unaccounted for. 

More than 14,000 people were left without power in the days following the fires, and more than 2,200 buildings were damaged - just in Lahaina.

Emergency Management Experts estimate the cost will be in the billions to rebuild.

Meanwhile, the emotional toll is beyond measure.

“Words can’t describe the destruction and desolation of Lahaina,” Honolulu Local 1357 Business Manager Troy Benevides said. “A popular and vibrant, historic Town that welcomed everyone is now ash and rubble.  A huge part of our Hawaiian History has been lost.  It’s going to be a long road to recovery.”

Jeff Larita, a Local 1260 Member, was born and raised in Lahaina, and the only Electric Troubleman working in that area: “This doesn’t compare to any other storm I’ve experienced.  It was very concentrated.  It was like a tornado on fire.”

About 500 Local 1260 Members have been working to restore power as quickly and safely as possible, which will involve replacing more than 400 poles.

Members who work in broadcasting have also been hard at work covering the catastrophe for the local news.

On the mainland, IBEW support has been pouring in, including from Members.

How to Help: Go to the GoFundMe page set up by the Hawaii IBEW Locals.  Donations that are larger than $200 should be sent to: IBEW Local Union 1186, 1935 Hau St., 5th Floor, Honolulu, HI 96819.  Checks can be made out to the Hawaii State Association of Electrical Workers.

To Read This Labor News Report In Its Entirety, Go To: ‘I’m Not Leaving’: IBEW Members Step Up in Aftermath of Hawaii Wildfires

Pictured Above: A Honolulu Local 1260 Member looks out at the devastation wrought by the wildfires in early August.  Photo Credit: Kevin Rochon