Episode 65: Lahaina’s Fire and the Future of Resilient Building in Hawaii

In early August 2023, Hawaii wildfires destroyed over 2,200 structures, caused an estimated $5.5 billion in damage, and most tragically claimed the lives of over 100 people.

In this episode of the ICC Pulse Podcast, we gathered key experts to discuss the Lahaina fire and Hawaii wildfires, emphasizing building safety and codes — how they shaped the disaster, what they reveal about vulnerabilities, what could change going forward, and more.

Guests on the show:

• Derek Alkonis, Senior Research Program Manager, Fire Safety Research Institute

• Dori Booth, State Fire Marshal, State of Hawaii

• Ka`āina Hull, Director of Planning, County of Kauai

• Justice Jones, Fire and Disaster Mitigation Program Manager, ICC

• Elizabeth Pickett, Co-Executive Director, Hawaii Wildfire Management Organization

Links to related and/or referenced topics in this episode:

• ICC Fire and Disaster Mitigation webpage

• 2024 International Wildland-Urban Interface Code (IWUIC)

• Information on FEMA's post-disaster recovery resources for code officials

• Donate Funds – Maui City Council

• Fire Safety Research Institute

• Hawaii Wildfire Management Organization | Protect Hawaiʻi