A snowmobiler has been killed after being caught in an avalanche in California's Sierra Nevada mountains on Christmas Day, authorities have confirmed.
Emergency Response Near Johnson Peak
Emergency services were called to the Truckee area shortly after 2:20pm on Monday, 25 December 2025, following a 911 report of a possible avalanche. The incident occurred near the areas of Johnson Peak and Castle Peak.
The Nevada County Sheriff's Office stated that the man, who was using a snowmobile, was initially reported missing. He was located by fellow recreationalists buried under the snow just several minutes later.
Lifesaving Efforts Prove Unsuccessful
Despite immediate lifesaving efforts performed at the scene by other individuals in the area, the snowmobiler could not be revived and was pronounced dead. Emergency personnel worked into the late hours of Monday to safely recover the victim's body and to confirm that no other individuals were caught in the slide.
The sheriff's office issued a stark warning that more avalanches could occur in the area and strongly recommended that people avoid the location.
Avalanche Risk Across the United States
This tragic incident highlights the ever-present dangers of backcountry travel during winter. According to the National Avalanche Center, between 25 and 30 people die in avalanches across the United States each winter.
The centre's current hazard map indicates areas of high avalanche risk in Utah and Washington, with considerable risk also present in parts of California, Colorado, Idaho, and Wyoming. This serves as a critical reminder for all winter sports enthusiasts to check conditions, carry appropriate safety gear, and heed official warnings before venturing into mountainous terrain.
