Drones may have captured some memorable images of the disaster but private users have been warned they’re risking lives by flying in areas where emergency services are working.

“Please keep drones grounded to ensure emergency responders can do their jobs effectively,” said LA County Sheriffs on X.

It comes after a water-dropping aircraft was damaged when it collided with a drone on Thursday. 

The CL-415 aircraft, known as a “super scooper”, struck the drone with its wing, said LA County fire chief Anthony Marrone. 

On loan from Quebec in Canada, it’s just one of two such aircraft in the area and Mr Marrone said it’s not expected to be back in action until Monday.

The fire department said the drone was being flown by a civilian.