CLEAR CREEK COUNTY, Colo. — A driver is safe after an avalanche swept over Loveland Pass Friday night.
The Colorado State Patrol said authorities were called out to Loveland Pass on Highway 6 near milepost 228 just before 7:30 p.m. Friday.
According to the Clear Creek County Sheriff's Office, the avalanche happened at the Seven Sisters slide area near Loveland Ski Area. CSP the slide is estimated to be 50 meters wide (164 feet) and four to five feet deep.
CSP said one vehicle was pushed 50 meters over the road, and there were concerns that other vehicles "may also be stuck." However, first responders determined that only one vehicle was involved.
Authorities flew a drone to the area and identified the vehicle owner based on the license plate. They then confirmed that the driver "was not with the vehicle" and was safe, according to the sheriff's office.
Photos from the Clear Creek County Sheriff's Office showed the initial emergency staging response at Highway 6. First responders had to wait to access the area "due to high risk of additional slides." In a 10:42 p.m. update, the sheriff's office said emergency responders were clearing the scene.
Highway 6/ Loveland Pass is closed in both directions at this time.
At 6:49 p.m. Friday, the Colorado State Patrol posted on social media that Loveland Pass was closed due to hazardous conditions. CSP said the roadway would remain closed overnight.
- This weekend is the most dangerous time for avalanches in Colorado. Hear what the experts are warning about in this story or the video player below
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