Those who still believe radio is passe and that most people no longer own one should take note of the medium's impact on the island of Maui, Hawaii. As many know from the news, that tourist area has become Paradise lost, as massive out-of-control infernos rage on the island, taking many lives and leaving little but rubble behind. It's a disaster that's going to take years to recover from. 

But the only bright lights have been the local radio stations, which have thankfully been left untouched by the ferocious flames. With cell phone towers burned or out of power and TVs not working as electricity fails, it's been up to the DJs who normally just play music to provide a lifeline. 

In this story from a Honolulu TV station, the trauma of the event is evident in the faces of the announcers, who note stranded or displaced residents are contacting them, some in tears and panic, others desperate for information on missing loved ones. And only radio has been able to provide it during the emergency - despite a lack of help from politicians and authorities. 

If ever the power of the medium was evident, it's in this case. And it's why I hope the over-the-air version of radio is around for a long time to come. This story proves it just needs to be. 

A valued source of communication, Maui radio DJs grapple with lack of information