At least six people dead in Maui as Hawaii wildfires continue to burn out of control

At least six people have died in wildfires raging on the Hawaiian island of Maui , mayor Richard Bissen Jr says. Several others are unaccounted for while hospitals on Maui are overwhelmed by burn and smoke inhalation victims, officials said. Mr Bissen Jr said the fatalities had been confirmed moments before a news conference on Wednesday. ‘I’m sad to report that just before coming on this, it was confirmed we’ve had six fatalities. We are still in a search and rescue mode.’ Wildfires whipped up by strong winds from Hurricane Dora have destroyed homes, knocked out 911 and cell services, and forced residents to flee into the ocean. Search and rescue teams are struggling to reach parts of Maui cut off in by three out-of-control blazes. Earlier Governor Josh Brown, who is expected to return to Hawaii on Wednesday night,  said in a  statement he was anticipating fatalities on Maui. ‘Heroic efforts by first responders have prevented many casualties from occurring, but some loss of life is expected,’ Mr Brown said.