Valiant Fire Fighting Efforts Stalled by This Stealthy Saboteur

Trees burning in a forest fire

In San Bernardino County, a devastating wildfire rages as unauthorized drones halt crucial firefighting efforts.

At a Glance

  • Firefighters in San Bernardino County had to ground their aircraft due to unauthorized drones.
  • The Line Fire started on September 5 near the San Bernardino National Forest.
  • The fire has grown to over 39,000 acres and is 51% contained.
  • Thousands of structures, including homes and commercial buildings, are at risk.

The Line Fire: An Overview

The Line Fire, which ignited on September 5 near the San Bernardino National Forest, has now burned over 39,000 acres. Despite efforts by firefighting crews, unauthorized drones caused the suspension of aerial operations, significantly impacting the containment efforts. This fire continues to threaten numerous structures, prompting California Governor Gavin Newsom to declare a state of emergency. This declaration aims to expedite additional resources and federal assistance to combat the blaze.

Firefighters face a desperate battle to contain the inferno, with crews focusing on strengthening control lines and mopping up hot spots. While the fire is smoldering and creeping through dry vegetation, the danger remains high. CAL FIRE officials lament the detrimental effect that drones have on firefighting operations, emphasizing the safety risks posed to both air and ground crews.

The Challenges Drones Pose

CAL FIRE reports that at least two drones disrupted operations, forcing aircraft to be grounded for over two hours. Yet, the drone operator remains unidentified. CAL FIRE’s warnings underscore the severe consequences of such interference, stressing that flying drones in wildfire areas endangers lives and impedes critical operations.

“Please help us share the message that flying drones in wildfire areas can have serious consequences,” CAL FIRE posted on X, formerly Twitter, on Wednesday morning. “There have been multiple drone incursions over the Line Fire area. This has forced us to temporarily ground our aircraft which has impeded firefighting operations.”

This interference comes at a critical time. The largest helicopters fighting the fire can drop over 2,000 gallons of water or fire retardant per trip. With drones in the airspace, these helicopters are grounded, allowing the fire to spread further. This not only puts firefighters and structures at greater risk but also hinders the overall strategy to contain the blaze.

Efforts to Mitigate the Fire

Firefighting crews at Redlands Municipal Airport are prepared to fly daily missions to drop water on areas inaccessible to ground crews. Despite challenges, they continue to strengthen control lines and mop up remaining hot spots. As the fire is largely smoldering, maintaining aerial operations is crucial to keep the fire from spreading further.

“Firefighting helicopters based at Redlands Municipal Airport have been hindered throughout the day after unauthorized drones were spotted flying over the fire. Drones pose a safety risk to helicopter crews. Fire officials are asking the public to not fly their drones as crews continue to work to contain the wildfire.”

Governor Newsom’s declaration of a state of emergency brings additional state resources and federal assistance into play. This support is critical as firefighters work tirelessly to contain and eventually extinguish the fire. While evacuation warnings are in place, mandatory evacuations have not yet been ordered, leaving residents in a state of heightened alert.

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