A helicopter fighting wildfires in Canada's southeastern province of Nova Scotia crashed into a lake Friday afternoon and the pilot was rescued, local media reported.

Citing the provincial Department of Natural Resources, CBC News said the helicopter crashed into shallow water while fighting the blaze in Annapolis County.

The pilot was conscious and taken for medical assessment, said the report.

The fire, which started on Wednesday, was caused by a lightning strike, according to the provincial authorities.

Transport Canada, which investigates aircraft incidents, has been informed about the crash and is expected to carry out a probe.