Lane County, OR – Winter conditions in Oregon’s mountains kept Lane County Sheriff’s Search & Rescue teams busy Monday evening as volunteers searched for an elderly woman missing near Elmira and assisted a stranded driver in snowy terrain near Brice Creek.
According to the Lane County Sheriff’s Office, the woman was located safely after teams coordinated a search through forested areas impacted by early snow. Around the same time, volunteers also responded to a Tesla that had slid off a forest road in deep snow. The driver, unsure of their location, was safely assisted back onto the roadway.
Officials say both incidents highlight how quickly weather can change in the Cascades and remind residents to prepare before heading outdoors. The sheriff’s office urges travelers to always share trip plans, pack overnight supplies, bring paper maps for offline navigation, and carry a whistle and flashlight in case of emergency.
“Cell service can be spotty in the mountains,” the agency warned, adding that visibility, rain, and snow can shift rapidly between the valley and higher elevations.
Lane County’s Search & Rescue volunteers respond to emergencies nearly every week, supporting residents and visitors across diverse terrain. More information and volunteer opportunities are available through the county’s official website.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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