Tree Crashes Through Bedroom in Grass Valley During Storm

Nevada County home damaged as snowstorm hits California's Sierra Nevada region

Published on Feb. 20, 2026

A tree fell onto a Nevada County home during Tuesday morning's snowstorm, leaving one woman stunned as she returned from work to find her bedroom destroyed. Sandra Montano, who works at a local high school, said she was surprised the schools were still open given the severe weather conditions.

Why it matters

The incident highlights the dangers posed by extreme winter weather events in California's Sierra Nevada region, which has been hit hard by heavy snow and storms this week. Homeowners in foothill communities like Grass Valley face increased risks of property damage and disruptions to daily life during these types of severe weather episodes.

The details

Montano said the tree crashed through her bedroom while she was at work. Luckily, no one was inside the room at the time. However, Montano and her husband had to cancel a planned trip to San Diego to deal with the downed tree and damage to their home. The recent snowy weather has also created challenges for Montano at her job, as the high school where she works experienced power outages during the storm.

  • The tree fell onto the home around 8 or 9 a.m. on Tuesday morning.
  • Several schools in Nevada County let out early on Tuesday due to the severe weather.

The players

Sandra Montano

A Nevada County resident who works in the kitchen at Nevada Union High School.

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What they’re saying

“Oh my god. I can't believe it. It's horrible,”

— Sandra Montano (cbsnews.com)

“We'll be sleeping in the living room tonight,”

— Sandra Montano (cbsnews.com)

What’s next

Montano and her husband will need to work with their insurance provider and local authorities to assess the damage and begin the process of repairing their home.

The takeaway

This incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers posed by severe winter weather, even in foothill communities like Grass Valley. Homeowners in these areas should be prepared for the possibility of property damage and disruptions to daily life during major storms, and take steps to protect their homes and families.