Study Reveals Long-Term Health Impact of Maui Wildfire

Over three years ago, a devastating wildfire struck the Hawaiian island of Maui, marking it as the deadliest U.S. wildfire in more than a century. Recent research now indicates that the disaster’s impact extends beyond immediate loss of life and damage to property.

This new study, spearheaded by Stephanie Sy, a correspondent from PBS NewsHour, explores the ongoing health effects experienced by survivors of the wildfire. Funded by the Common Health Coalition through the National Press Club Journalism Institute Public Health Reporting Fellowship, the research aims to document the prolonged health implications of the disaster.

Stephanie Sy has an extensive background in journalism, holding various anchor and correspondent roles across ABC News, Al Jazeera America, CBSN, CNN International, and PBS NewsHour Weekend. Her career achievements include anchoring Yahoo News’ coverage of the 2018 Midterm Elections and reporting from Donald Trump’s victory party during Election Day 2016.

Another key contributor to the project is Maea Lenei Buhre, a general assignment producer for PBS NewsHour. Together, their work shines light on the critical need for understanding how wildfires impact health long after the flames have subsided.