As of Monday, 24 firefighters from Wyoming were actively fighting the devastating wildfires burning in Southern California, contributing to a nationwide effort to contain the blazes, Cowboy State Daily reports.
These wildland responders, working with five fire engines, are part of Wyoming’s ongoing commitment to assist with fire emergencies across the US Wyoming’s crews have joined forces with other states, responding quickly when duty calls.
The fires in California, particularly in the greater Los Angeles area, have already claimed the lives of at least 24 people and forced the evacuation of around 150,000 residents. As of Monday, the Palisades Fire, the largest blaze, was 13% contained, while the Eaton Fire, one of the deadliest, was 33% contained.
Wyoming’s participation is part of a broader mutual aid system that coordinates state and federal responders across the country. This system has been in place since the 1988 Yellowstone National Park fires and continues to evolve as wildfires become an increasing threat. Crews from Albany County, Yoder, Fremont County, Mills, and Casper Mountain are among those deployed to California. A second task force from Laramie County is set to depart soon, and additional crews from Teton, Sublette, Washakie, and Campbell counties will be heading to California in the coming days.
Chris Fallbeck, Assistant Fire Manager Officer for Wyoming State Forestry, emphasized the importance of mutual support between fire departments across the country, noting that when California is in need, Wyoming is ready to help. Likewise, when wildfires hit Wyoming, states like California have offered assistance, strengthening the bond between firefighters nationwide.
Fremont County and Yoder crews, who arrived in California last week, are expected to remain on the ground for at least 14 days, working 16-hour shifts to combat the fires. Crews are primarily focused on urban areas, putting out hot spots and ensuring gas lines are secured. Some members of the Yoder crew are also tasked with protecting structures and preparing for potential flare-ups as forecasted winds of up to 70 mph are expected in the coming days, increasing the risk of rapid fire spread.
Despite the challenges, Wyoming firefighters are familiar with the terrain and conditions in California. Yoder Fire District Chief Justin Burkart, who spent significant time in California last year, explained that while the situation remains dire, the team is well-prepared.
“It could flare back up again. There’s just nothing you can do. It’s just an act of nature,” he said.
The national response to these fires continues to grow, with nearly 14,000 responders deployed to assist with the California wildfires.
