The helos have a huge advantage over the fixed-wing tankers in that they can get closer to steep terrain and into tight canyons. The ability to hop over to a local pond or lake also makes them able to recycle and get back on target much more quickly than the fixed-wing guys. The downside is that they are much smaller, and their rotorwash tends to disperse/evaporate the water plume.
What I'm wondering is what effect all of that smoke and combustion product is having not only on the crews, but on the engines of those helos. It can't be good for either.
I am really hoping for some rain for you guys. I can't imagine living under those conditions for what is going on 2 weeks now.
/Kevin Madore