One year after the devastating Maui wildfires, UH researchers are addressing the disaster's impacts through studies on health, environmental contamination, disaster preparedness, and housing, aiming to support recovery and improve resilience.

One year after the catastrophic wildfires on Maui, University of Hawai'i researchers have been actively involved in assessing and addressing the disaster's impact. Their research spans several areas, including health studies on wildfire exposure, environmental effects on coral reefs and drinking water, and innovations in disaster preparedness and response. These efforts aim to better understand and mitigate the long-term consequences of the fires on both people and the environment.
Significant studies include the Maui Wildfire Exposure Study, which monitors health outcomes for residents affected by the fire, and investigations into contamination of water sources and coastal ecosystems. Additionally, researchers are working on projects to improve disaster readiness, such as developing AI-based systems for wildfire forecasting and monitoring.
The University of Hawai'i's comprehensive approach also includes evaluating the economic impacts of the disaster, particularly the ongoing housing crisis exacerbated by the fires. Their research seeks to support recovery efforts and enhance resilience against future disasters by providing critical data and developing strategies for better preparedness and response.
FULL STORY: Maui fires 1 year on: UH research continues to assess impacts, support recovery

Planetizen Federal Action Tracker
A weekly monitor of how Trump’s orders and actions are impacting planners and planning in America.

USGS Water Science Centers Targeted for Closure
If their work is suspended, states could lose a valuable resource for monitoring, understanding, and managing water resources.

Congress Moves to End Reconnecting Communities and Related Grants
The House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee moved to rescind funding for the Neighborhood Equity and Access program, which funds highway removals, freeway caps, transit projects, pedestrian infrastructure, and more.

Poor Conditions in Mobile Home Parks Put Residents at Risk
Failing infrastructure, poor water and air quality, and predatory owners endanger the health of manufactured home residents, many of whom are elderly and low-income.

How Complete Streets Stands to Lose in the FY26 ‘Skinny Budget’
The President’s proposed budget could cut key resources for active transportation, public transit, and road safety programs.

Dairy Queen and Rural Third Places
Dozens of Dairy Queen restaurants across Texas are closing, taking a critical community space with them.
Urban Design for Planners 1: Software Tools
This six-course series explores essential urban design concepts using open source software and equips planners with the tools they need to participate fully in the urban design process.
Planning for Universal Design
Learn the tools for implementing Universal Design in planning regulations.
City of Moorpark
City of Tustin
Tyler Technologies
City of Astoria
Transportation Research & Education Center (TREC) at Portland State University
Chaddick Institute at DePaul University
Regional Transportation Commission of Southern Nevada
Toledo-Lucas County Plan Commissions