DUBAI: Several Gulf countries have issued warnings to their citizens in Hawaii to take caution against the wildfires and adhere to instructions of local authorities.
The embassy of Saudi Arabia in the United States called on its nationals in the Hawaiian islands to leave as soon as possible and follow the warnings and cautions issued by local authorities.
— SAUDI Consulate LA (@KSAconsulateLA) August 10, 2023
Additionally, the UAE and Kuwait’s embassies issued warnings against the wildfires and advised citizens to take precautions to stay safe.
The UAE Consulate General in Los Angeles urges all Emiratis on Maui Island, Hawaii, to exercise caution due to the ongoing forest fires. It is important to stay away from fire-affected areas and follow the guidance issued by local authorities. In case of any emergency, please get…
— UAE Consulate in LA (@UAEinLA) August 10, 2023
A state of emergency on the island of Maui was declared where firefighters were battling a blaze that forced the evacuations of thousands of people and sent huge clouds of smoke billowing over nearby beaches.
The fast-moving wildfires that raked Maui took a heavy toll on humans and property, killing at least 53 people and devastating the historic town of Lahaina.