San Bernardino County, in Southern California, has suffered from heavy snow storms throughout February. Over eight feet of snow collected in the mountain community of Lake Arrowhead, trapping families and collapsing roofs.
The snow has hindered emergency response efforts. Snow removal has been focused on main highways, leaving many residents homebound in some cases for over two weeks. Community members have turned to their neighbors for food sharing and group evacuation while they wait for additional support.
Thirteen people have been reported dead due to snow-related factors like blocked roads and the inability to receive essential medical care. The total count is still unclear as many homes remain buried.
The California National Guard arrived at the scene after Governor Newsom declared a state of emergency. The order permitted outside contractors to be utilized by the California Department of Transportation to remove snow from the roads. The California National Guard Joint Task Force Rattlesnake Unit was also summoned to aid in emergency response.
By Leanne Auyeung