Mental health and poverty remain a struggle for Maui wildfire survivors, new study says

Community members hold hands in a prayer circle at a 'Lahaina Strong' community gathering on 6 October 2023 in Lahaina, Hawaii. Photograph: Mario Tama/Getty Images

Mental health problems and economic hardship remain widespread among survivors of the Maui wildfire, as access to food, stable housing, work and healthcare remains a struggle for many, according to a study tracking 2,000 survivors.

Two in every five (41%) adults report declining overall health since the August 2023 fire, with the burden falling heaviest on those still exposed to ash, smoke and debris, according to the latest findings of the Maui Wildfire Exposure Study (MauiWES), a pioneering longitudinal research initiative by the University of Hawaii (UH) and local community groups.