Dramatic Aerial Assault Stops Wyly Fire As Flames Tear Across California Hills

Video filmed by Kern County Fire Department captures the intense initial attack on the Wyly Fire as it burned through rugged terrain near Keene.

Footage from KCFD Helicopter H409 shows orange flames and thick smoke rising from hillsides while helicopters drop water and retardant over the fire area. The aerial views reveal active hotspots and the scale of the blaze across dry vegetation and mountainous terrain. Ground crews can also be seen working along visible control lines below.

Additional scenes show firefighters in full protective gear operating hoses and equipment on the ground. Evacuation zones were managed as crews continued reinforcing containment lines overnight.

According to the Kern County Fire Department, the fire’s forward progress was stopped within hours through a coordinated response involving air and ground resources. Alongside KCFD helicopters, air support was provided by CalFire and the USFS. Firefighters remained on the ground overnight working to increase containment.

The multi-agency response, shared on June 14, 2026, documented both the early stages of the incident and an update on conditions. The Wyly Fire reached 1,023 acres and was reported at 10% containment. Firefighters continued strengthening control lines and addressing hotspots throughout the incident area.

Evacuation orders and warnings for zones KRN-100, KRN-455, and KRN-419 were lifted. No further advisories were in place.

No injuries were reported. The swift interagency effort prevented further expansion of the fire in the area.