This fire has been going on for 4 days. We have been without rain for 4 months.
I was afraid to fly closer. Can smoke, soot ... damage the Mavic mini?

yes. wont come back

The smoke may block the visual sensors or even leave a layer of soot on them. That could be bad for the downward facing ones that measure the height above the ground when it is under 10 meters. Other than that I don't think there would be a problem. I would get closer but stay out of the smoke. In any case, clean them and the camera lens after use.

I am assuming that you are not in the USA, so our rules do not apply.  However, if your firefighters are using ANY aircraft for any task related to the fire, DO NOT FLY anywhere near the fire.  The last thing you want to do is have your drone cause a fire helicopter to crash.  At least around here, if a drone is spotted, they will immediately suspend ALL flight operations.  That means that the fire gets bigger...

Don't be stupid!

K6CCC Posted at 9-14 15:07
I am assuming that you are not in the USA, so our rules do not apply.  However, if your firefighters are using ANY aircraft for any task related to the fire, DO NOT FLY anywhere near the fire.  The last thing you want to do is have your drone cause a fire helicopter to crash.  At least around here, if a drone is spotted, they will immediately suspend ALL flight operations.  That means that the fire gets bigger...

Don't be stupid!

"At least around here, if a drone is spotted, they will immediately suspend ALL flight operations"

That is very interesting. I assume that they would surely stop all flights if they see an airboarn mature bald eagle in the area also. That bird is 18x heavier with a 12x greater wingspan than the Mini .... in addition to being protected. If not....now that is very stupid!

Very sad sight.

Hello there ESchimidt. Thank you for reaching out and for posting this video you have captured using your DJI Mavic Mini. The DJI Mavic Mini's Operating Temperature Range is from 0° to 40°C ( 32° to 104°F ). In addition I will post a DJI video on DJI Tutorials - Flying in Hot and Cold Weather. I hope that everyone there is fine and safe and please stay safe always.

Tragic sight. Take care.

Thank you all.
Firefighters have aircraft, but not enough for the drought period.
I am aware of my attitudes.

I'm here in Oregon and I have not and will not fly while these fires
are going. Reasons are if you fly the firefighters can't. That's one of the first
rules of drone flying. Second I paid to much to damage my bird to get
smoke footage and end up with smoke damage. Make better decision.

Yeah, one reckless move and many lives are lost. Be smart when flying.

Even if they see a drone at a completely different altitude, the will halt the operation. At least thats what the do here in america, dont know about brazil.

Horrific sight. Stay safe.