Biden signs disaster declaration for Hawaii over deadly fires

President Biden on Thursday signed a major disaster declaration for the state of Hawaii, freeing up additional federal funding as deadly fires have ravaged Maui and other areas.

Assistance can include grants for temporary housing and home repairs, certain loans to cover property losses and other programs for home and business owners, the White House said.

Biden spoke earlier Thursday by phone with Hawaii Gov. Josh Green (D) about the wildfires, the White House said.

“He expressed his deep condolences for the lives lost and vast destruction of land and property,” the White House said. “President Biden confirmed he signed a Major Disaster Declaration for Hawaii that will deliver additional federal resources and support on top of the actions already underway by FEMA, the National Guard, the U.S. Coast Guard, and other federal agencies to support the emergency response.”

The president on Wednesday ordered “all available Federal assets” to support the response to the Maui wildfire — including the U.S. Coast Guard and the Navy’s 3rd Fleet.

The ongoing fires on Maui, brought on by unusually dry conditions, have been fanned by Hurricane Dora, churning south of the island. At least 36 people have died as a result of the fires, and some people jumped into the ocean in search of safety.

According to Maui County officials, at least 271 structures were damaged or destroyed and dozens of people were left injured.