Devastating Wildfires in West Maui

7min Snip

00:00

Play full episode

Summary

Transcript

Episode notes

This chapter discusses the recent devastating fires in Hawaii, specifically in the West Maui Hills and the town of Lahaina. It explores the factors that contributed to the severity of the fires, including dry conditions, strong winds, and abandoned farmland. The chapter also highlights the response to the fires and the potential for more frequent fires due to climate change.

As the death toll surpasses 100, we report from Maui where fires have ravaged the island in the deadliest American wildfire in over a century. Why was this one so catastrophic? The plummet of coca prices in Colombia is messing with the market (09:58). And northern Europe fights to preserve its local languages in schools (17:09).

For full access to print, digital and audio editions of The Economist, try a free 30-day digital subscription by going to www.economist.com/intelligenceoffer