The power company in Hawaii admitted that their power lines caused a wildfire on Maui. However, they blamed the local firefighters for leaving the scene too soon, which led to a second more destructive fire. The power company denied the county’s accusations that they failed to turn off the power despite strong winds and dry conditions. They stated that the power lines were de-energized for over six hours before the second fire started. The cause of the initial fire was believed to be power lines falling in high winds. The power company argued that if their lines hadn’t caused the first fire, none of this would have happened. The dispute over the cause of the fire is important in determining who is responsible for the extensive damage and loss of life. The Attorney General warned property owners to be cautious of unsolicited offers to buy their land, as it is considered illegal under an emergency proclamation.
