LOS ANGELES, United States, Feb 20, 2026 (BSS/AFP) - The search for a ninth person believed killed in a huge avalanche in California will stretch into the weekend, US officials said Thursday, as atrocious weather continues to hamper operations. "Due to hazardous weather conditions, avalanche victims cannot be safely extracted off the mountain today," the Nevada County Sheriff's office said on Facebook. The statement also noted the women were "experienced backcountry skiers" who were "fully equipped with avalanche safety equipment." Expedition organizers Blackbird Mountain Guides on Wednesday said all staff in the group were professionally trained, and urged people to avoid speculating about the circumstances. "Guides in the field are in communication with senior guides at our base, to discuss conditions and routing based upon conditions.

Source: Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha February 20, 2026 05:42 UTC