Jason Momoa has expressed his heartbreak and devastation over the impact of huge wildfires in the US state of Hawaii, begging his followers for help.
The Aquaman and Game of Thrones actor, 44, was born in Honolulu on the island of O’ahu, near to where deadly wildfires have destroyed communities and towns.
Beginning on Tuesday, the fires spread across Maui island, causing widespread damage – especially in the town of Lahaina, where 55 people were killed.
As the recovery effort now begins, with thousands of evacuees returning to their severely affected neighbourhoods, donations are now flooding in.
Jason, who later moved to the mainland United States before returning to study at university in Hawaii, pleaded with his Instagram followers to give what they can.
Alongside a video of the fires, he said: ‘We’re devastated and heartbroken for our friends and ‘ohana (family) on Maui who been impacted by the recent wildfires.’
‘Families were forced to evacuate on short notice, many escaping with only the clothes on their backs. Information on injuries and fatalities is still coming in.’
He continued: ‘Lahaina town is gone. Many other places on Maui were also affected. We continue to send pule (prayers) to this incredible community.
‘Āina Momona is [supporting] our Maui community. All the funds raised will be given to the Hawaii Community Foundation Maui County Strong Fund.’
The Fast & Furious actor shared links to the donation fund, explaining that they were using specific platforms to get the money to affected families quicker.
Natives and tourists alike have also been devastated by the news that an ancient banyan tree, the largest in the United States, has been scorched in the fires.
Earlier this year, a 150th birthday party was held for the tree, with it having been planted in 1873 – its surrounding area was named Banyan Tree Park.
Satellite images from before and after the fires have revealed the impact of the devastation, with several buildings and homes ‘wiped off the map’.
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