Maui wildfire leaves behind “toxic air” that locals fear will affect their health for years to come
Weeks after a devastating wildfire ripped across the historic Maui town of Lahaina, residents are working to pick up the pieces of their homes' and businesses' remains. But the threat of the wildfire isn't over just yet – now, they're facing "toxic air." Wildfire smoke is known to cause a range of health issues, most notably breathing issues. But when they burn through cities, the flames also burn up industrial items, buildings, cars and a slew of other things that can release toxic chemicals. According to the state's Department of Health, "toxic contaminants present in debris and ash" remain a top hazard concern in Lahaina, as do other heavy metals and chemicals that may be in the ashen remains of the city, such as asbestos. Diana Felton, the state toxicologist, previously told Hawai'i P...
