The chief of the Maui Emergency Management Agency, Herman Andaya, tendered his resignation in the wake of intensifying criticism over his qualifications and handling of the recent devastating fire that swept through Lahaina, killing at least 111 people. The resignation was confirmed by Maui Mayor Richard Bissen, who stated that Andaya cited health reasons for his departure.
The move follows a public outcry over the lack of emergency alerts and sirens during the Lahaina fire, which claimed several lives and caused extensive property damage. Survivors voiced their frustrations about not receiving any warning as the fast-spreading blaze caught them off guard. The fire’s rapid escalation was exacerbated by strong winds that propelled the flames through the area and fire hydrants that were without water.
A day prior to his resignation, Andaya had publicly defended his decision not to activate emergency alert sirens. Many believed that these sirens could have played a crucial role in alerting residents about the imminent danger posed by the fire. Andaya maintained that using the sirens would have driven people inland toward the fire, since they have been accustomed to hearing the sirens as warnings of an impending tsunami. The decision has sparked controversy and intensified the scrutiny on Andaya’s leadership.
Herman Andaya Jr. was named the administrator for the Maui Emergency Management Agency in 2017 after serving as interim administrator for six months. He was selected by a committee that reviewed the qualifications of 40 app.icants.
Andaya’s served as the deputy director of the Department of Housing and Human Concerns, assistant administrator of the housing division and the mayor’s chief of staff.
The number of confirmed fatalities is 111, the Maui Police Department reported on Wednesday. Police reported that 40 percent of the area has been searched.
The road to Lahaina reopened to all motorists from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m., on Wednesday. Late-night access from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. is limited to West Maui residents, first responders and West Maui employees. FEMA has opened an office and is registering people for disaster assistance in Kahului.
