THE death toll in Hawaii has risen to 101 with "many" still missing as mobile morgues have been brought to Maui after the devastating wildfires.
Families of the missing have been asked to submit DNA as first responders work to identify the mounting number of bodies found on the island.
A mobile morgue unit arrived on Tuesday to help state officials identify the deceased and the first list of names is expected to be released.
About 1,000 people still remain missing as firefighters keep working around the clock to contain what is now officially the deadliest US wildfire in modern history.
Green previously said that he fears the death toll will double by next week.
"We are prepared for many tragic stories. They will find 10 to 20 people per day, probably, until they finish. And it’s probably going to take 10 days," Green said on Monday.
"It’s impossible to guess, really."
Inspectors and cadaver dogs are searching the town of Lahaina, where the fire started on August 8.
The US Department of Health and Human Services has deployed a team of coroners, pathologists, and technicians along with exam tables, X-ray units, and other equipment to help identify victims and process the remains, said Jonathan Greene, the deputy assistant secretary for response.
"It’s going to be a very, very difficult mission," he said. "And patience will be incredibly important because of the number of victims."
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In the week since the blaze tore through the historic city, survivors have been forced to move into hotel rooms as donations of food, ice, water, and other necessities are being delivered.
Crews and cadaver dogs have been able to comb through 32 percent of the area, said Governor Josh Green in a statement.
Green asked for patience after authorities became overwhelmed with requests to visit the burn area.
So far, only three bodies have been identified, said Maui Police Chief John Pelletier, who asked families with missing relatives to proved DNA samples.
So far 41 samples have been submitted and 13 DNA profiles have been obtained from remains, according to a statement from state officials.
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