Safety of Searchers Now Central Concern in Avalanche Recovery

An avalanche the size of a football field near Castle Peak overwhelmed a group of 15 skiers, and efforts have shifted from rapid rescue to body recovery. Six members of the party survived and contacted rescuers; at least eight others did not survive, making the event the deadliest in modern California history.

One person remained missing and was presumed dead. The priority has turned to protecting searchers as heavy snow is expected to continue, increasing the danger of further avalanches and burying remains deeper. Ashley Quadros, a spokeswoman for the Nevada County Sheriff’s Department, said, “Initially, the call-out was much more high risk, since we had at least six survivors.

United States, Nevada County, California

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