The devastating wildfire on the island of Maui is one of the worst natural disasters in the history of Hawaii. (Photo: Reuters)

Hawaii's governor, Josh Green said 1,700 buildings were probably destroyed in the fire and it looked like “about 80% of Lahaina is gone."

US President Joe Biden on Thursday approved a major disaster declaration for Hawaii, freeing up federal aid to support the island of Maui’s recovery from wildfires.

Recovery may take years. Search and rescue efforts are still underway. Thousands of people have been evacuated to emergency shelters or left the island.

Previously, at least three large fires broke out late on Tuesday on the west coast of Maui Island due to gusts of 128km/h from Hurricane Dora.

The fire quickly spread, covering the coastal town of Lahaina. The devastating wildfire on the island of Maui is one of the worst natural disasters in the history of Hawaii.