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Mon, December 29, 2025
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Family Rescued from Sierra Nevada After Winter Storm
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Published in House and Home on Monday, December 29th 2025 at 2:21 GMT by CBS News- 🞛 This publication is a summary or evaluation of another publication
- 🞛 This publication contains editorial commentary or bias from the source
Stranded in the Sierra Nevada: Dramatic Helicopter Rescue Saves Family After Winter Storm Cripples Mountain Road
A harrowing ordeal unfolded in the Sierra Nevada mountains this week as a California family found themselves stranded after a severe winter storm rendered their access road impassable, ultimately requiring a dramatic helicopter rescue to bring them safely home. The incident, involving the Phelan family – David and Veronica Phelan and their two young children – highlights the increasing dangers posed by extreme weather events in mountainous regions and the crucial role of emergency services in responding to such crises.
The ordeal began on Tuesday when the Phelans, residents of Moorpark, California, embarked on a trip to their vacation home near Lake Tahoe. They were driving along Highway 89 near Emerald Bay when an unexpected and intense winter storm hit, dumping significant snowfall and creating hazardous road conditions. According to El Dorado County Sheriff’s Office spokesperson Sgt. Scott Lowe, the snow fell rapidly, quickly overwhelming the highway's ability to be plowed effectively.
"The snow came down so fast that it was just a whiteout," David Phelan told CBS Los Angeles in an interview. "We knew we were in trouble when we saw cars spinning out and getting stuck." Recognizing the deteriorating conditions, the family decided to stop at their cabin, believing the storm would soon pass. However, as night fell and the snow continued to accumulate, it became clear that they were effectively trapped. The road leading to their property was completely blocked by several feet of snow, making any ground-based rescue impossible.
The Phelans attempted to contact emergency services via phone, but cell service in the remote area proved unreliable. After multiple attempts, they managed to reach authorities and reported their situation. El Dorado County Sheriff’s Office dispatchers immediately recognized the severity of the circumstances. The storm had also impacted other areas, hindering snowplow operations and making a ground rescue impractical.
"We knew that getting to them by vehicle was not an option," explained Lowe. "The road conditions were just too dangerous." Given the family's isolation and the rapidly dropping temperatures, a helicopter rescue became the only viable solution. The decision was made to deploy a California Highway Patrol (CHP) helicopter, equipped for high-altitude operations in challenging weather conditions.
The rescue operation itself wasn’t without its challenges. The storm continued to rage, creating low visibility and strong winds that complicated the pilot's approach. According to CHP Air Operations Unit public information officer Officer Jeremy Olson, the flight was “extremely difficult” due to the adverse weather. "Visibility was near zero at times," Olson stated. "The pilot had to rely heavily on instruments and his experience to navigate."
The helicopter successfully located the Phelan’s cabin and landed nearby. David and Veronica Phelan, along with their two children – a boy aged 7 and a girl aged 5 – were carefully hoisted aboard the aircraft one by one. The entire process was captured in dramatic video footage released by the CHP, showcasing the precariousness of the situation and the skill of the rescue team.
The family was transported to a safe location at South Lake Tahoe, where they were reunited with relatives and provided with medical evaluations. While shaken by the experience, all four members of the Phelan family are reported to be in good health.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of mountain weather and the importance of preparedness when venturing into remote areas. The El Dorado County Sheriff’s Office emphasized the need for travelers to check road conditions before embarking on trips, carry emergency supplies (including food, water, blankets, and extra clothing), and inform someone of their travel plans. The CHP also reiterated the importance of having a fully charged cell phone and knowing how to use satellite communication devices in areas with limited or no cellular service.
Furthermore, this rescue underscores the vital role that specialized units like the CHP Air Operations Unit play in responding to emergencies in California's diverse terrain. The ability to conduct aerial rescues in challenging conditions is crucial for protecting lives and ensuring public safety. The cost of such operations can be significant, but officials maintain that saving lives remains the top priority.
Following the rescue, David Phelan expressed immense gratitude to the CHP and El Dorado County Sheriff’s Office. "We are incredibly thankful for their quick response and professionalism," he said. “They saved our lives.” The incident has resonated with many in the community, highlighting both the dangers of winter weather and the unwavering dedication of those who risk their own safety to protect others.
Sources & Further Information:
- CBS Los Angeles News Report: [ https://www.cbsnews.com/losangeles/news/phelan-winter-storm-family-helicopter-rescue/ ]
- CHP Air Operations Unit (Information from Officer Jeremy Olson): Referenced within the CBS News report and available through CHP public information channels.
- El Dorado County Sheriff’s Office: Information provided by Sgt. Scott Lowe, accessible via their official website and social media platforms.
Read the Full CBS News Article at:
[ https://www.cbsnews.com/losangeles/news/phelan-winter-storm-family-helicopter-rescue/ ]
