Canada is deploying more aircraft to bolster firefighting efforts in California, including waterbombers and helicopters equipped to fight fires at night from Alberta and more CL-415 aircraft from Quebec.
Alberta Premier Danielle Smith announced the province’s support in a social media post, but did not specify the aircraft types involved.
The province has historically leased or contracted air support to fight wildfires.
Its fixed-wing fleet includes CL-215T waterbombers with 5,400-litre capacities, as well as de Havilland Q400 aircraft that drop flame retardant.
Alberta also has a five-year contract with Talon Helicopters for a night-vision-equipped Airbus AS365 N2 Dauphin 2 helicopter.
The province expanded its night-vision program in 2023 with a Bell 212 medium from Ascent Helicopters in B.C. and a Sikorsky S-61 from Canadian Helicopters in Montreal.
“Our hearts go out to everyone in California who has been evacuated due to the devastating forest fires,” said Smith in a statement on X.
“Good neighbours are always there for each other in times of need, and we will assist our American friends in any way they need during this crisis.”
Meanwhile, the White House announced it is coordinating with the Winnipeg-based Canadian Interagency Fire Centre, which will provide two additional CL-415s from Quebec.
The aircraft are expected to move into Southern California on Monday.
These waterbombers will complement Canadian firefighting assets already in use, including CL-415s from Quebec and CH-47 Chinook helicopters from B.C.-based Coulson Aviation.
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In a separate social media post, emergency preparedness minister Harjit Sajjan said Canada was ready to deploy 250 firefighters, “aircraft equipment,” and other resources as early as Thursday evening.
“The Canadian Forces are standing by to move personnel and equipment,” Sajjan said.
“Canada stands ready to support our American neighbours during this challenging time.”
California’s state government is also leveraging dozens of domestic aircraft to battle fires, including six air tankers and 31 helicopters from Cal Fire, and two C-130 Hercules aircraft and 10 helicopters from the California National Guard.
I live all the way in Vermont people please don’t fly those drones they trying to say property lives I mean use your brain have a heart if anything help them put out the fires leave those damn drones on the ground
Thank you God bless make sure all the kids are safe