'He's lost everything.' In Seattle, sadness — and fundraising — for Maui's wildfire survivors

The Hawaiian community in Seattle is reeling from news of the wildfires that swept across Maui and other islands this week, killing at least three dozen people and wiping out homes and businesses.

Peter Buza has dished up plate lunches to fellow Hawaiian transplants and workers in Georgetown’s industrial section for three decades. His Kauai Family Restaurant feels cheerful and relaxed. Buza does not.

“I couldn't sleep last night, just thinking," Buza said with tears in his eyes.

RELATED: Seattle woman recounts Hawaii family's escape from wildfire

Buza’s brother and sister-in-law’s home in Lahaina Town is in ashes, he said. So is their car.

“Let me quote my brother — he said it’s 'apocalyptic,'" Buza said. "It spread within minutes.”

Buza said it’s heartbreaking to watch folks like his brother, a disabled veteran, go through one more hardship.

“He's lost everything in Maui. Nothing to go back to. Nothing," Buzz said.

Scientists say climate change likely contributed to the conditions that let the fire get out of control.

Buza made his annual visit to Maui in April. He noticed then how dry it was.

"I remarked to my wife, I said, ‘This place is like a match waiting to be lit.’"

Buza is holding two fundraising events at his restaurant to benefit people affected by the wildfires, and gathering clothing, shoes, diapers and wipes to send to folks who lost their homes.

His brother doesn’t know what he needs, Buza said — he’s still in shock.

RELATED: Scorched by Maui wildfire, historic Lahaina banyan tree appears still standing