A helicopter crashed in the U.S. while fighting a wildfire; two pilots were killed — Associated Press
In Utah, U.S., a Sikorsky Skycrane helicopter crashed while fighting a large wildfire. Two pilots were killed in the crash, according to the Associated Press, citing local officials.
The crash occurred on the morning of August 7. The helicopter was working to extinguish a fire in Fishlake National Park. After the aircraft crashed, a new fire broke out, spreading to an area of approximately 451 square kilometers that was already engulfed in flames.
The pilots were employees of Helicopter Transport Services, which was performing work under contract with the U.S. Forest Service. Their names have not yet been released.
Initially, rescue teams were unable to reach the crash site due to the fire. On Saturday, crews were able to access the area and confirmed the deaths of both pilots.
The U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has launched an investigation into the causes of the crash. Experts are awaiting the opportunity to examine the helicopter wreckage. Determining the final cause of the crash could take a year or more.
Source: Associated Press.
As a reminder, Ukrainian rescuers saved a fawn during a fire in France.
Forest fires in southern France not only destroyed homes but also led to the discovery of an old cache of ammunition. In the municipality of Le Porge, approximately 400 shells and other munitions from World War II were found. Some of them exploded right during the fire due to the high temperatures.
