Jason Momoa warns tourists away from Hawaii

Hawaiian-born actor, Jason Momoa has warned tourists to stay away from Hawaii as the wildfires have devastated much of the island.

Best known for his portrayal as the DC Justice League member Aquaman, Jason Momoa, 44 took to Instagram to make tourists aware that Hawaii is not a good travel destination as wildfires have ripped through the island.

More than 90 people have been confirmed dead due to the natural disaster which has devasted towns such as Lahania.

Born in Honolulu, Hawaii Momoa said on Instagram: "Do not travel. Do not convince yourself that your presence is needed on an island that is suffering this deeply." 

Addressing the pain many Hawaiian communities are currently facing he said they need time to: "heal, grieve and restore".

Communities of Maui in Hawaii saw tourists swimming at the beach whilst many communities were still finding their lost loved ones which sparked Momoa's comments on social media.

One local told the BBC what they saw and said: "That says a lot about where their heart and mind is through all of this and where our heart and mind is now... nobody is having fun in tragedy and continuing their lives as if nothing happened".

Local officials have warned tourists to cancel their plans to travel to Maui and any non-essential trips, however, Hawaii's economy relies on tourism and will suffer a significant loss from the lack of travelling to the county.

The Maui Economic Development Board revealed that around 80% of the island's income comes from tourism.

The wildfires began on Tuesday due to strong winds from a hurricane that swept over the island along with the dry summer, although officials have managed to control most of the fires but have been unable to extinguish them on all parts of the island.