What’s that noise? Cal Fire is conducting low-flying night training in the Sacramento area

Residents near Folsom Lake may hear some loud noises overhead at night over the next several weeks.

That’s because Cal Fire is doing low-flying nightly training flights, using night vision goggles, from sunset to 10 p.m. each weeknight.

The training exercises began Monday, and are set to go through Friday, then again from March 18 to March 22 and March 25 to March 29.

According to Cal Fire, three to four helicopters will be flying over Folsom Lake and surrounding neighborhoods while practicing maneuvers included simulated fire drops and approaches to landing zones.

“These flights are crucial for ensuring Cal Fire crews are prepared and proficient in responding to wildfires, especially during critical nighttime hours when visibility is reduced,” according to a Cal Fire statement.

During these exercises, residents may see and hear low-flying helicopters. Cal Fire said they will be operating according to Federal Aviation Administration approval and that while noise level may increase “slightly,” the agency is committed to minimizing disruption to the community.

This story was originally published March 1, 2024 at 3:57 PM.