Oregon Search & Rescue Responding to "Active" Avalanche Incident

Originally posted on Powder | By Izzy Lidsky | Last updated Feb 18, 2025 3:56 PM ET

The Central Oregon Avalanche Center posted to social media on Tuesday, February 18th around 11:30 a.m. PST that there had been an avalanche burial near Bend, Oregon.

According to the post, Deschutes County Sheriff's Office Search and Rescue (DCSOSAR) responded overnight to an avalanche burial. The burial reportedly happened between the snowmobile Trail 88 and Trail 6 junction, in the Trail 8 area, also known as Happy Valley. Central Oregon Avalanche Center is currently supporting DCSOSAR with rescue.

The social media post has been embedded below. Keep reading for more information.

DCSOSAR asks the public to avoid the area and to be aware of additional search and rescue and law enforcement resources responding. The incident is currently active and COAvy will continue to provide updates as necessary.

The avalanche danger in the central Cascades was rated as Considerable (Level 3 of 5) at all elevations on Tuesday. The avalanche forecast also noted that following a storm with significant snow totals over the weekend and into Monday, the avalanche danger would continue to rise through the day.

Avalanches large enough to bury or injury riders were possible at all elevations and likely on wind affected slopes in deeper pockets of snow. Wind slabs and storm slabs were both cited as possible avalanche problems.

This is an ongoing story and will be updated as more information is available.

According to avalanche.org, there have been eight known avalanche-related fatalities recorded so far this winter.

This article first appeared on Powder and was syndicated with permission.

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