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This article has been archived by Conspiracy Resource for your research. The original version from KITV Honolulu can be found here.