Nestled amidst the cerulean waves and swaying palms, Hawaii is a haven of tranquility and beauty. The idyllic setting, however, is now engulfed in an inferno of wildfires. The blaze is claimed to be the worst in over a hundred years and has transformed this paradise into a landscape of ashes and devastation. In the midst of this harrowing catastrophe, Kelly Slater provided a glimmer of hope.

Renowned for his mastery of the waves and his legacy in the surfing world, Slater’s connection to Maui runs deep. Yet, when this beloved haven was ablaze, Slater’s response was swift and compassionate. However, a recent heartbreaking incident has occurred, leaving the surfer in mourning.

Kelly Slater continues to mourn the devastation in Hawaii

In a recent Instagram story, Slater shared a post by Hawaii New Now. The photo bore a heartbreaking caption: “Indescribable grief’: Loved ones identify family of four killed while fleeing Lahaina wildfire.” The wildfire’s devastation claimed the lives of the Fonua Tone family—Faaso and Malui Fonua Tone, along with daughter Salote Takafua and her son Tony Takafua—whose attempt to escape the flames ended in tragedy.

Slater, deeply moved, reflected below the image, “Doing some reading this morning and trying to put the Maui fires in perspective… From reports on the ground in Lahaina, it’s likely that hundreds more people have died in the Maui fires than were directly killed by Hurricane Katrina.”

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In his heartfelt words, Slater’s empathy shone through, honoring the collective sorrow and holding space for the Hawaiian communities, reminding us all that unity and compassion can shine even amidst the darkest of times. Kelly Slater and the surfing community are working side by side with the island’s residents to restore their beloved paradise.

How the surfing community has been helping their paradise

Slater stated, how the surf community is helping by physically trying to be there and provide supplies and donations. He also discussed the difficulties caused by harbor obstructions, boats caught in flames close to the piers, and damaged power grids in the affected areas. Slater brought up the breakdown in communication on both sides of Lahaina, which served to further highlight the severity of the situation. The tragedy hits close to home for Slater, as several of his friends have borne the brunt of the wildfires. American big wave surfer Kai Lenny, a Maui resident, has also dedicated his entire being to helping his neighborhood.

Heartbreaking recovery efforts can be seen in the wake of the devastating wildfires in west Maui. The death toll from the deadliest US wildfire in more than a century has risen to 96, with more still unaccounted for. These wildfires have left a path of devastation, displacing thousands, and causing losses estimated at close to $6 billion. They are notable for their unheard-of speed and destructive force. The enormous task of finding victims and rebuilding looms ahead as search teams with cadaver dogs sift through the rubble.

Read more: “Hoping for a Miracle”: As Panic Rises Surfing Icon Kelly Slater Sends a Heart-Felt Message in a Concerning Update

Kelly Slater’s somber post on social media has resonated deeply, casting a spotlight on the urgency of the situation. His words shed light on the need for immediate action and for all to stand in solidarity with Hawaii during this tragedy.

Watch this story: Big-Wave Surfer Kai Lenny Accumulates Applauds on the Internet for His Noble Act of Saving His French Bull Dog While E-Foil Surfing