Maui in Hawaii is a gem for surfers. Each year, hundreds of surfing enthusiasts flock here from all over the world. Its iconic surf spot Pe’ahi, which is popularly known as Jaws, is also part of the WSL’s Big Wave Event. Jaws’ big swells are a treat for big-wave surfers. Other famous surf spots in Maui are Honolua Bay, Olowalu Beach, Paia Bay, and Breakwall. It is truly a surfer’s paradise, which has waves for all types of surfers. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced surfer, Maui has it all, and surfing legend Kelly Slater has been a regular visitor of this iconic surf destination.
However, recently Maui has been experiencing some unprecedented alarming times. A wildfire has engulfed across the island, and pretty much reduced this historic town to ashes in its wake. As the people of Maui fight this natural disaster, surfing icon Kelly Slater took to his social media to share a heartfelt message for this iconic surf destination with the aim of attracting help to the island.
Kelly Slater shows support for Maui
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The Hawaiian island of Maui, which is known for its iconic surf spots, is facing one of its biggest challenges. Reports suggest that more than 270 structures on the island have suffered major damages and as many as 6 people have died so far. Acting as fuel to the fire are the strong winds blowing from Hurricane Dora as it passed over the historic town. Amidst all the crisis, a frequent visitor of Maui, Kelly Slater, has taken to his Instagram, as he stands with the people of Maui, and helps amplify their concerns online.
In his Instagram story, Slater shared the horrific visuals of the surfing town. One cannot see anything except the bright fires in the blackness of the night. The surfing legend emphasized that in this difficult moment, he is thinking about the people of Maui. Amplifying their distress, he states that the brushfires and the hurricane winds have resulted in great damage.
A part of Slater’s Instagram story read, “I can’t even imagine what they’re going through. Friends have already said they’ve lost everything. Hoping for a miracle to help out these out and save what remains for everyone.” However, Slater is not the only surfer to amplify Maui’s voice to the world. A Maui local and big wave surfer is also using his platform to help his home in their time of need.
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Kai Lenny is helping Maui through social media
Big wave surfer and Maui resident Kai Lenny have been using his Instagram to help his hometown. The iconic big wave surfer has been constantly posting about help and updates on his Instagram stories. Lenny has been updating the world about disturbing visuals at Lahaina Harbor, showing help arriving through helicopters and informing locals about where they can find shelters on the island in this time of crisis. He has even put up a link to his friend’s GoFundMe page and is requesting people to donate to the people of Maui.
Read more: “I Might…”: Kelly Slater Shares a Cryptic Message Days After Saddening 2024 Paris Olympics Update
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Lenny is also amplifying state authorities’ guidelines about non-essential travel on his Instagram and keeping the local community and the outside world informed of every developing factor in this crisis. As surfing heroes like Kelly Slater and Kai Lenny continues to help Maui online, authorities and local residents fight this battle on the ground as together they aim to emerge victorious from this crisis.
Watch this story: Ride at Your Own Risk: World’s Most Treacherous Surf Destinations