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Maui is totally unprepared for large natural disasters

Maui reminds me of the grasshopper in the fable about preparing for the winter. Throughout the summer, the grasshopper plays and ridicules the ants who are stocking away supplies for when winter comes. When it does come, the ants are nice and warm in their caves and tunnels and fully supplied with necessities. But the grasshopper is out in the cold and snow wearing only a thin shawl.

Maui is totally unprepared for what is coming. A mere rise in the ferocity of wind knocks out power, including cable, internet and other telecommunications options. For many, the inability to use electrical heaters will add cold to darkness and isolation.

God help us in a hurricane, days of heavy rain, a tsunami or earthquake. Not only are essential services in the flood zone, but outside help may be unable to deliver necessities to us.

Maui is not only isolated; it is imperiled by any tsunami triggered anywhere within the ring of fire.

While you have internet, you might want to learn about mega tsunamis. Especially if you consider yourself safe in a south- or west-side condo.

Raphael O’Suna

Haiku

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