Fresh evacuations are under way on the Hawaiian island of Maui as flames creep closer to the town of Kaanapali, a city just north of the hard-hit Lahaina.
The order came just hours after Lahaina residents were told they could briefly return to take stock of the damage to the fire-ravaged historic town.
So far, 80 people have been confirmed dead in what is the deadliest natural disaster in the US state’s history.
Hundreds more have been reported missing and the toll may still rise.
Hawaii’s attorney general has announced a “comprehensive review” into how the authorities responded to the wildfires, as questions mount over whether officials warned residents fast enough.
State officials reopened Lahaina to people with proof of residency on Friday for the first time since flames swept rapidly through early this week, razing much of the coastal town which has a rich history and attracts some two million tourists a year.
But within hours after opening, the road was shut to everyone but emergency services.Authorities told the BBC that police had been called in to address a “situation” but would not elaborate.
Evacuated Lahaina residents later said they believed their homes had been struck by looting, though this was not confirmed by police.
Still, for hours after the closure, families sat in a mile-long line.
Earlier, Governor Josh Green had warned residents would be greeted by “destruction like they’ve not ever seen in their lives”.
BBC/ Adebukola Aluko
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