World News Tonight with David Muir Full Episode: Wednesday, February 18, 2026
Feb 19, 2026
Trevor Rolt, an on-scene ABC News reporter who covered the Northern California avalanche, gives vivid field reporting and eyewitness details. He describes the deadly Castle Peak collapse and the treacherous rescue conditions. He also discusses questions about the guiding company’s decisions and the logistical challenges facing search teams.
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Deadly Avalanche In Sierra Nevada
- A massive avalanche on Castle Peak buried a guided backcountry group, resulting in at least eight dead and a ninth presumed dead.
- Extreme weather grounded helicopters and forced rescuers to leave bodies on the mountain due to avalanche reload and safety risk.
Guide Company And Personal Loss
- Trevor Rolt reported the group included 11 skiers and four guides returning from a three-day guided trip near Castle Peak.
- One rescuer was married to one of the deceased, intensifying the emotional toll on the rescue effort.
Respect Avalanche Warnings
- Heed official closures and avalanche forecasts when planning backcountry trips to avoid high-risk conditions.
- Avoid entering zones where helicopters are grounded and avalanche reload is likely to endanger rescuers.