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MAUI, Hawaii – At least six people are dead and search efforts are still underway on the Hawaiian islands as the influence of Hurricane Dora to the south of the islands and a strong ridge of high pressure to the north fuel dangerous wildfires.

Fire crews battled brush fires on Maui and the Big Island on Tuesday as wind gusts of more than 70 mph helped spread the flames. One of the larger fires burning on the northern part of the Big Island charred more than 1,800 acres.

"This is an unprecedented disaster as an indirect result of Hurricane Dora passing just south of our islands," said Hawaii Lt. Gov. Sylvia Luke. "It is truly devastating, and my heart goes out to the residents of Maui and all those impacted."