Here are some of the key factors that led to a nightmare fire scenario on Maui.
Trade winds are part of Hawaii's climate. Air moves from the high-pressure system to the north of the islands to the low-pressure area at the equator. Even though it was about 500 miles away, Dora upset the balance, influencing the low-pressure system and increasing the difference in air pressure resulting in unusually strong trade winds.
On the windward side of Maui, moisture-rich air rises in elevation from the mountain chain and condenses, resulting in precipitation. Drought conditions changed dramatically on Maui since May, when no part of the island was considered unusually dry, according to the U.S. Drought Monitor. An alarming increase in drought severity in a short period of time is considered a flash drought. Rains that usually drench the islands and contribute to their lush vegetation stopped at the same time temperatures increased, becoming so hot that moisture was stripped from plants, making them dry and more likely to ignite.
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