Alberta is sending firefighters to California as the state continues to battle ongoing wildfires fuelled by dry conditions and heavy wind.
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The province received a request to assist through the Canadian Interagency Forest Fire Centre and is sending two fully equipped wildfire crews made up of 40 wildland firefighters and two agency representatives. The crews departed from Edmonton on Monday and are expected to arrive in California in the coming days.
Premier Danielle Smith said the province remains committed to providing support and offered her condolences to those in California impacted by the fires.
“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,” Smith said.
Forestry and Parks Minister Todd Loewen said California firefighters supported Alberta in 2023 and it is now time for the province to step up.
“I have spoken directly to Cal Fire and to the Governor’s Office of Emergency Services to assure them that Alberta is prepared to support them in their ongoing efforts,” Loewen said.
“Alberta has experience and expertise in battling wildfires, and we’re committed to supporting our friends and partners in the United States.”
California’s wildfire management agency will determine where Alberta firefighters are deployed.
Alberta wildfire said they are preparing water bombers, pilots, and contracted night vision helicopters if further assistance is needed.
Los Angeles prepares for hurricane-force wind
The fast-moving wildfires have destroyed thousands of homes and killed at least 24 people in the Los Angeles area. There are at least 23 people missing.
Officials said the death toll will likely rise as first responders continue to search through the rubble.
The number of people under evacuation orders in Los Angeles County has dropped to under 100,000 but authorities urged residents to be prepared in the event another evacuation order is called due to additional fires.
On Monday, the United States National Weather Service predicted hurricane-force wind that could spread wildfires more quickly.
While it’s too soon to know the financial damages, wildfires will likely be some of the costliest in U.S. history. A preliminary estimate by AccuWeather put the damage and economic losses between $135 billion and $150 million.
–With files from the Associated Press
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