Robert Gauthier/Los Angeles Times via Getty Images(NEW YORK) The aftermath of the Maui wildfires may have a significant mental and physical health toll.
Dangerous wildfires fueled by dry conditions and strong winds are continuing to sweep across Maui, ravaging the small Hawaiian island.
At least 55 people have been killed and a majority of the historic town of Lahaina, which was once the capital of the Kingdom of Hawaii, has been destroyed, according to officials.
During a press briefing on Thursday, Gov. Josh Green called the wildfires "likely the largest natural disaster in Hawaii s state history."
But the impacts go beyond evacuations and damaged buildings. Experts say the fires are also affecting residents and tourists physical health and could have impacts on their mental health.
Small particles from smoke can travel into lungs
Wildfire smoke is a mixture of gases, pollutants and particles that people can inhale, penetrating the lungs and even entering the
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