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San Diego County Enhances Wildfire Readiness with C-130H Air Tankers

Update Major Upgrade for Firefighting Efforts in San Diego County The San Diego County community is set to benefit from a significant construction project at the Ramona Air Attack Base, aimed at enhancing local wildfire response capabilities. This upcoming upgrade will accommodate the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection's (Cal Fire) new C-130H firefighting air tankers, which will dramatically improve firefighting operations in the region. The project kicks off on August 1, with an estimated completion time of eight to twelve months. Why the Upgrade is Important The current infrastructure at the Ramona Air Attack Base, which has served the area for almost 70 years, is in need of modern repairs. Workers will demolish and replace the aging tarmac and fire-retardant reloading bays to meet the demands of the larger, more capable C-130H aircraft. This upgrade reflects Cal Fire's commitment to providing robust wildfire response support across Southern California. Effects on Air Operations During Renovation While the Ramona base is being renovated, adjustments will be made to local firefighting air operations to ensure continuous service. This includes utilizing the Hemet-Ryan Air Attack Base in Riverside County for reloading and activating a temporary reload base at Brown Field in San Diego for extended fire operations. Furthermore, Cal Fire plans to increase the initial attack aircraft dispatch from two to four air tankers to compensate for the temporary loss of operational capacity at Ramona. Community's Confidence in Firefighting Resources Residents can rest easy knowing that the San Diego County remains well-equipped to handle wildfire threats, with up to seven helicopters available through interagency agreements for rapid response. The C-130H air tankers will join the firefighting arsenal, enhancing the overall capability to battle both regional and statewide wildfires. Local homeowners should stay informed about these developments, as effective firefighting resources are vital for protecting homes, properties, and the community as a whole. With these efforts underway, the future of wildfire response in San Diego is looking brighter than ever.