At least 36 dead because of the fires in Hawaii

At least 36 people have died as a result of the fires that broke out on Maui Island of Hawaii.

Thousands of people have been forced to evacuate from their homes, and the state of emergency has been declared there.

A major search and rescue operation is under way, with some people still undiscovered.

Five evacuation shelters were opened in Maui, and officials earlier said they were “filled” with people. The island is a popular tourist destination, and visitors have been asked to stay away.

This is not a safe place to stay”, Hawaii Mayor Sylvia Luke told reporters.