Quebec water bombers join effort to combat California wildfires
At least four fires have left two people dead and destroyed more than 1,000 buildings in the Los Angeles area
Two Quebec water bombers and their crews are in California to help combat the devastating wildfires engulfing the Los Angeles area.
Speaking with the Canadian Press, Stéphane Caron, SOPFEU, Quebec's forest fire protection agency, said the planes travel to the U.S. each fall due to contractual obligations and this year's stay was extended to assist with the emergency.
California wildfire updates
Quebec Public Security Minister François Bonnardel posted a message of support on X, acknowledging the difficulties Californians are facing.
"[California] governor Gavin Newsom can count on the government of Quebec and the SOPFEU to support him," Minister Bonnardel added.
At least four fires have left two people dead and destroyed more than 1,000 buildings in the Los Angeles area. Tens of thousands have been forced to evacuate, and more than 400,000 people in the state were without power Wednesday afternoon.
Dry conditions, coupled with strong winds, have helped fan the flames. At the time of this writing, crews have not been able to get the fires under control.
Header image: Fire engulfs a building as powerful winds fueling devastating wildfires in the Los Angeles area force people to evacuate, in the Pacific Palisades neighborhood of west Los Angeles, California, U.S. January 8, 2025. REUTERS/Mike Blake
