This morning, a C-130 from Oregon, crashed in the Snowy Monaro area of New South Wales. Three U.S. firefighters were on board and died in the crash. Canadian planemaker Coulson Aviation has now grounded all of its C-130s.

It’s hard not to have seen the dramatic photos: glowing orange skies, acres of scorched earth, so much smoke that people have to wear masks.

Yesterday, two more crews of 20 firefighters each, left for Australia to assist. The crews are comprised of firefighters from both the Department of Interior and the U.S. Forest Service, and are from all over the country. The U.S.has already sent over 200 staff members from both agencies.

Guests

• CalFire Deputy Director Mike Mohler