An uncommon windstorm grounding a fleet of helicopters as they tried to extinguish flames to protect homes. The decision, Child said, was “super difficult…probably one of the harder things I ...

(K.C. Alfred / The San Diego Union-Tribune) San Diego County wants to buy a second firefighting helicopter equipped for making water drops at night. It has nearly $4 million in hand but needs to ...

Quick calculations, coordination, communication and feedback were key in helping helicopter pilots hit their spots.

one of many helicopters they use to make water drops with pinpoint precision on flames in gusty Santa Ana winds during the wildfires. Photographed Tuesday in Van Nuys. (Photo by Gene Blevins ...