The San Bernardino Mountains in California are in a state of emergency after destructive winter storms have left several communities stranded and vulnerable. In response to the devastation, the California National Guard have arrived on Thursday, March 2nd, to the area to offer aid in what is expected to be a weeks-long search and rescue attempt.

Gov. Gavin Newsom declared the state of emergency in San Bernardino and 12 other counties to support disaster relief efforts in the region, bringing in more snow plows, road crews, and authorizing the California National Guard to mobilize for disaster response. In addition, aerial assets from the National Guard have been placed on standby to assist with rescues if necessary.

Residents of the mountain communities were aided by the hand crews and high-clearance vehicles from Cal Fire who arrived overnight Wednesday and are actively working in close coordination with local fire personnel. The snow has been relentless, dumping up to seven feet in some areas