A drone interfered with aerial firefighting operations Saturday as crews battled the Eight Mile Fire west of Cedar City, Utah, according to Iron County emergency officials. The fire grew to about 60 acres as crews used retardant drops and helicopters to contain the lightning-caused blaze.
“Air assets will be grounded unless this drone stops flying!!!” Iron County Emergency Management said in a Facebook post reported by KSL. “If this is your drone please cease immediately so that we can get this fire under control quickly! Please do not fly drones near an active fire.”
By Sunday, officials said the fire had stopped growing and crews were continuing mop-up operations. Authorities did not say whether firefighting aircraft were ultimately grounded or whether the drone operator was identified.
0 replies