Helicopter collides mid-air during wildfire suppression mission
Helicopter Crash During Forest Fire Fighting Operations in Nova Scotia
Nova Scotia is currently battling 11 active forest fires, with one of the most significant being the Long Lake fire in Annapolis County. On August 15, 2025, a helicopter involved in the firefighting efforts for the Long Lake fire crashed into shallow water around 4:24 p.m.
The pilot, who was the only person on board, was found conscious and communicating with firefighters. They were swiftly rescued by 6 p.m. and taken for a medical evaluation, with their name and current condition remaining undisclosed. Transport Canada has been informed of the incident and will be conducting an investigation to determine the cause of the crash.
The Long Lake fire, which has been burning since Wednesday, has grown from three to four square kilometers over the past two days. It has exhibited extreme fire behavior with high flame lengths, indicating dangerous conditions. However, cooler temperatures and higher humidity have helped ease the situation somewhat, according to Dave Steeves, spokesperson for the ministry. Despite these efforts, the fire remains out of control.
The wildfire has burned over 400 hectares of forest, leading to the evacuation of approximately 50 homes. Safety remains a priority for crews and residents in the area. To combat the blaze, ground crews and other aerial resources, including two CL-415 water bombers from Quebec, have been deployed.
This is not the only forest fire the province is dealing with. A fire near Lake Susie, on the outskirts of the city, has been brought under control, as confirmed by the Halifax Regional Municipality. However, the soil layers in the province remain very dry, increasing the risk of new forest fires.
In summary:
- A helicopter crashed during firefighting operations for the Long Lake fire on August 15, 2025. The pilot was found conscious and taken for medical evaluation.
- The Long Lake fire has been burning since Wednesday and has grown to 4 square kilometers. It remains out of control despite ongoing efforts to contain it.
- The wildfire has led to the evacuation of approximately 50 homes and has burned over 400 hectares of forest.
- Two CL-415 water bombers from Quebec have been deployed to help fight the Long Lake fire.
- Safety remains a priority for crews and residents in the area.
This information reflects the latest updates as of August 2025 during the ongoing emergency response.
- The helicopter crash during the Long Lake fire fighting operations in Nova Scotia on August 15, 2025, was a part of the general news that day.
- The French-manufactured CL-415 water bombers, deployed from Quebec, have been instrumental in the industry's efforts to combat the spreading Long Lake fire.
- The financial burden of fighting these forest fires and associated accidents, such as the helicopter crash, is undoubtedly substantial for the province's partners in the finance sector.
- With the absence of recent significant weather changes, there remains an ongoing concern about potential transportation disruptions due to increased wildfire activities and car-accidents in Nova Scotia.
