Search operation underway as deadly avalanche hits Idaho

A search operation was initiated for one of three men caught in an avalanche in the Idaho backcountry, specifically near Stevens Peak, close to the Montana border.

Initially, all three individuals were missing but two were later located, as reported by CBS Spokane's affiliate, KREM-TV, citing the Shoshone County Sheriff's Office.

The rescued individuals were transported to a hospital, with one suffering from an apparent broken arm.

The Shoshone County Sheriff's Office stated that the Kootenai County Sheriff's Office and the U.S. Air Force were actively involved in the search and rescue efforts.

The authorities did not disclose the specific activities of the three men in the area, situated several miles southwest of the Lookout Peak ski area and over 90 miles from Missoula, Montana.

The avalanche occurred in an area that had been under an avalanche danger warning for several days due to recent snowfall and blowing winds, creating unstable conditions on high, steep slopes.

The Idaho Panhandle Avalanche Center had issued a cautionary statement, highlighting the likelihood of avalanches triggered by human activity, especially on steeper terrain.

The incident unfolded just a day after the first U.S. avalanche death of the season was reported in California.