Debunking Maui fire conspiracy theories: ‘Smart cities’ and ‘Direct Energy Weapons’
Social media users shared a range of false claims this week. Here are the facts: Conspiracy theories are suggesting the Maui wildfires were planned by distorting the facts around a recent and upcoming conference.
Similarly, posts are wrongly suggesting standing trees and poles amid the Maui fire wreckage are unusual — even though experts say that’s common. Let’s break it down:
Front Street is seen on Saturday, Aug. 12, 2023, in Lahaina, Hawaii, following a deadly wildfire. (AP Photo/Rick Bowmer)
A general view shows the aftermath of a wildfire in Lahaina on the Hawaiian island of Maui, Thursday, Aug. 17, 2023. (AP Photo/Jae C. Hong)
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This article has been archived for your research. The original version from KITV Honolulu can be found here.
This article has been archived for your research. The original version from KITV Honolulu can be found here.
