Update 2:56 p.m.: Avalanche mitigation is commencing shortly this afternoon. All advised to stay out of the area.
TRUCKEE, CA – The Nevada County Sheriff’s Office (NCSO) is conducting aerial flights as needed today of the Castle Peak avalanche scene.
The objective of the aerial surveys is to visually assess the conditions of the avalanche scene and snowpack as well as to make determinations if controlled avalanche mitigation may be possible at some point. Controlled avalanche mitigation consists of pre-planned explosive deployment to intentionally release unstable snowpack. These proactive measures are designed to reduce the risk of naturally occurring avalanches and enhance first responder safety within the affected area, so they may recover victims with lower risk. The eight known decedents remain on the mountain at this time, with an additional victim unaccounted for, but also presumed deceased. Adverse weather, coupled with ongoing avalanche danger, has hindered the recovery process.
Should it be determined that avalanche mitigation is possible, the public will be notified before any activity commences. Tahoe National Forest issued a public safety closure of the Castle Peak area from Feb. 20 up to March 15. It is important that unauthorized individuals stay out of the area for their safety and the safety of first responders. Unauthorized individuals who enter the area may negatively impact the recovery operations to safely retrieve loved ones.
Partners today include California Highway Patrol Air Operations, Nevada County Sheriff’s Search and Rescue, Placer County Sheriff’s Tahoe Nordic Search and Rescue, REACH Air Medical Services, and Sierra Avalanche Center.
Updates will be posted as they become available.