A snowmobiler died in a Nevada County avalanche on January 6, 2026, despite rescue efforts.

A snowmobiler died in an avalanche near Johnson Canyon and Castle Peak in Nevada County, California, on January 6, 2026, around 2:19 p.m. The incident involved a group of five snowmobilers, one of whom was buried and later pronounced dead despite emergency efforts. Around 45 responders from multiple agencies, including the Nevada County Sheriff’s Office, Truckee and North Truckee Fire, and Tahoe Nordic Search and Rescue, conducted a search operation. The Sierra Avalanche Center had warned of dangerous conditions prior to the event. Authorities urge the public to avoid the area due to ongoing avalanche risks.