On Sunday, actor and former wrestler Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson went to Instagram to release a statement regarding the devastating wildfire that erupted in Maui on Tuesday, Aug. 8.
“Hey, everybody,” The Game Plan actor, a Samoan, started. “I know that, by now, all of you around the world have seen the complete destruction and devastation that has hit our Hawaiian islands, our island Maui. I’m completely heartbroken over this, and I know all of you are, too.”
The Rock continued, “Everything that I’ve seen transpire over these past couple of days, everything that has continues to transpire hour by hour, minute by minute, it’s all heartbreaking.”
He thanked the world for praying and demonstrating love and support to those impacted by the wildfires.
The Rock added that he had been communicating with those working to provide relief for those immensely impacted. He tagged the Hawai’i Community Foundation in the caption and added their funding page to his bio link in case his 388 million followers wanted to donate.
The 51-year-old conveyed his appreciation to those with boots on the ground.
“Heartbroken but our faith and mana is strong,” the caption read. “First responders, health care teams, hotels, local businesses, boots-on-the-ground organizations and all our local heroes, stay strong – we love you and appreciate you.”
It continued, “All our local families, our ohana, our aiga, stay strong thru this devastating time. Resilience resolve is our DNA. Our ancestors are in our blood. This is who we are. This is what we do. I love you. Stay strong. More to come.”
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The Rock has spent part of his childhood in Hawaii.
According to NBC, the fire started in Lahaina early Tuesday morning, but the National Weather Service had warned those on Maui island about the possible fire dangers high winds could start.
On Aug. 2, NWS warned about how dry conditions and strong winds from Hurricane Dora contributed to “critical fire weather conditions.”
As days passed, the humidity decreased, and the winds became more robust, leading to a fire. Maui is known for having much vegetation, enabling the fire to spread as quickly as it did in Lahaina.
It became the deadliest wildfire in U.S. history, with a current death toll of 96. Emergency teams are searching through debris for anyone missing, and, as of Sunday, they’ve only covered 3% of Lahaina with the help of cadaver dogs.
The raging fires engulfed many residents’ homes and valuables, leaving them stranded without many resources. Some are still trying to find and contact other loved ones.
Head to the Hawai’i Community Foundation’s website here to donate.
