07:21 GMT
Image source, Getty ImagesImage caption,
A Super Scooper drops ocean water on a hillside
US media reports that privately-owned civilian drones are being flown in areas impacted by the fires and causing disruption to aircraft
battling the flames.
More than 30 drones flying within the temporary flight restriction area of the Palisades fire have been detected over the past 24 hours, according to a statement from the Los Angeles County Fire Department spokesperson Sheila Kelliher.
Officials note that it is illegal to fly drones in areas where there is a temporary flight restriction in place.
A large Super Scooper aircraft named Quebec 1 on loan from Canada was
damaged and grounded last week after hitting an unauthorised drone near the Palisades fire. The aircraft sustained wing damage and remains grounded and out of service. There were no reported injuries.
If drones are detected near firefighting aircraft, it means operations have to be suspended, Kelliher says. “This disruption compromises structure
defence and critical life saving efforts”, she says.
“Please remember, when you fly we can’t, it truly puts us all
in danger,” she says.