An unexpected tragedy struck a renowned Hawaiian beachside resort on Thursday night when an explosion at The Whaler resort injured seven people, including three in critical condition.
The blast, which is believed to have been caused by liquefied petroleum gas used for barbecue grills in the resort’s common area, left a trail of debris near the popular Kaanapali Beach in west Maui. Authorities are investigating the incident, with initial reports indicating a possible grill malfunction as the trigger for the devastating explosion.
Explosion at The Whaler Resort of Hawaii
The explosion occurred at The Whaler on Kaanapali Beach, a sought-after tourist destination known for its stunning white sands and luxurious accommodations. Video footage from the area captured the intensity of the blast, which erupted near a swimming pool and sent debris flying toward the beach.
The Maui Police Department confirmed that the seven injured individuals ranged in age from 18 to 74. Three of them sustained critical injuries and were immediately rushed to the hospital for emergency treatment.
The explosion took place in the barbecue area of Tower One, a section of The Whaler resort that accommodates both guests and property owners. Emergency responders, including firefighters and paramedics, arrived at the scene shortly after the explosion to provide medical aid and secure the area.
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Witnesses reported a sudden, violent eruption followed by flames and thick smoke, causing panic among guests and staff. Fortunately, despite the chaos, authorities confirmed that no evacuations were necessary for residents and visitors in the surrounding areas.
Possible Causes and Investigation
Preliminary investigations by the Maui Police Department point to liquefied petroleum gas, commonly used for barbecue grills, as a probable cause of the explosion.
Witnesses have stated that there might have been a grill malfunction moments before the blast occurred. However, officials stress that the exact cause remains undetermined and is under active investigation.
LAHAINA, Hawaii: An explosion at The Whaler resort on Kaanapali Beach in West Maui on Thursday evening left seven people injured, including three critically.
— GeoTechWar (@geotechwar) February 21, 2025
The blast occurred around 6:15 p.m. at the 2481 Kaanapali Parkway.
Webcam footage captured debris flying from the… pic.twitter.com/Cr382aL3YL
Liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) is widely used in commercial and residential properties for cooking and heating. While it is generally considered safe when properly handled, gas leaks, faulty equipment, or improper usage can lead to hazardous situations.
Investigators are examining whether a gas leak, equipment failure, or operational oversight contributed to the tragic event. The management of The Whaler released a statement acknowledging the explosion and affirming their commitment to guest safety.
“Thankfully, we are actively working with the fire department to investigate the situation, and we will share updates as soon as more information becomes available. Our top priority is the safety and well-being of our owners, guests, and team members,” the statement read.
Impact on The Whaler Resort and Community
The Whaler Resort, located just a few miles north of Lahaina, a town that suffered immense devastation in the 2023 wildfire, is a vital part of Maui’s tourism economy.
The explosion has once again put the region on edge, reviving painful memories of past disasters. Many locals and tourists who frequent Kaanapali Beach expressed shock and concern over the incident, fearing for the safety of visitors staying at the resort.
Despite the explosion, the resort continues to function, with unaffected areas remaining open to guests. Authorities have cordoned off the affected sections to facilitate the investigation and ensure public safety.
Local businesses and tourism operators are closely monitoring developments, as any prolonged closure of parts of The Whaler could impact the area’s economy.
Incidents like this highlight the importance of rigorous safety protocols in hospitality establishments. Gas-powered grills and other appliances require frequent inspections and maintenance to prevent accidents.
As investigations continue, authorities are likely to assess safety measures at The Whaler and possibly other resorts in the vicinity to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
The explosion at The Whaler Resort serves as a stark reminder of how quickly accidents can disrupt the peace and safety of a beloved vacation destination.
While investigations continue to determine the exact cause, the priority remains the recovery of the injured individuals and the assurance of safety for all visitors and residents in the region. As more details emerge, the hospitality industry and local authorities will need to re-evaluate safety measures to prevent such incidents in the future.
let’s enjoy few years on earth with peace and happiness….✍🏼🙏