Oct 11-12 Rainfall

Obtained from National Water Prediction Service on October 12 Yesterday we had a decent rainfall here in New Jersey and environs. I measured about 2.35 inches in my rain gauge. As it had been several days since we had a decent rainfall I was starting to wonder about increased wildfire danger if the rain continued to hold off or if we only had light rainfall. While I know that soil can dry up and there is also a risk of wildfires, I am grateful for the rain.

Air Tractor Fire Boss Working a Wildfire

Direct link to September 25th video from Dawson Thomas on YouTube

As some of you know, I have a special affinity for all Air Tractors, perhaps because I have saw an Air Tractor flying a wildfire years ago and on another occasion got to see one up close and personal.

Winter Airtanker Maintenance is Very Important

Direct link to Bridger Aerospace on Facebook, posted on October 5th.

As I continue to write this blog and try to focus on all that is involved in flying airtankers and helicopters on wildfires, I know how important winter maintenance is to keeping airtankers and helicopters in safe flying condition. Maintenance is important for all aircraft and maintenance schedules should be adhered to. The importance of following aircraft maintenance schedules was driven home to me when I went on scenic rides several years ago. I hope that you can see the October 5th Facebook post from Bridger Aerospace that I embedded. If you cannot I hope that you can find Bridger Aerospace on Facebook and look for their October 5th post.

Aero Flite Tanker 160 Working Wildfires in California

Direct link to October 1st King's Aviation video on YouTube</a>

I do know about AeroFlite and the good work that their aerial firefighting tankers do working wildfires in the United States and globally. I am glad to be able to share this video with you of Aero Flite Tanker 160 working a wildfire in California in late September 2026

About Precision Helicopters Wildfire Fighting Operations

Direct link to August 5th video by Vertical Plus and Lloyd H Photography on YouTube

2026 Wildfire Season: Quiet Season in Alaska

Direct link to September 30th video from Alaska News Source on YouTube

I have never been to Alaska but I do try to follow their wildfire season. I am happy that so far Alaska has had its quietest wildfire season in 31 years. I hope that this quiet season continues. The quiet wildfire season is due to rain and a late frost. Unfortunately adjoining areas of northwest Canada had a significant wildfire season.

Airtankers: Tour of Coulson's Trailers and Vehicles

Direct link to September 27th video on YouTube from Coulson Aviation

Airtankers Flying at Night in California

Direct link to August 18th video from Airborne Firefighters on YouTube

Enjoy this video about airtankers flying wildfires at night in California. The aerial wildland firefighters receive training to safely fly wildfires at night. I am happy to know that airtankers fly wildfires at night in California, I do not know if other States have airtankers flying wildfires at night.

Airborne Firefighters, a documentary series, has other videos about wildland firefighting.

Airtankers at Abiliene Texas Tanker Base Responding to Wildfires on Sept. 17th

Direct link to September 17th video from KTXS News on YouTube

Decent Rainfall in My Area but Continue to be Aware of Wildfire Danger

Water supply indicators are currently not concerning due to decent to above average rainfall the last few weeks. However. I remain aware of wildfire danger. Anything can happen to bring on a wildfire of any size whether it be lightning or a untended campfire or arson; a small wildfire can grow into a large wildfire. I hope that anyone having a picnic with a campfire or camping out in early fall pays attention to campfire safety, being sure that any campfires are put out and cold to the touch.