Air patrols are still “on and off” in search of the British actor who disappeared three weeks ago in California, Julian Sands.
Normally, similar searches would be downgraded after 10 days, the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department said.
However, as bad weather has so far hampered the efforts, it was decided to extend the search period.
“Our Aviation Division continues to patrol that area, intermittently, looking for Mr. Sandsa spokesman said.
“Typically we search for 10 days before switching to a passive search. In this case, with weather conditions precluding a continuous search, we extended these plans.
“While weather and mountain conditions continue to be an issue, we will resume ground searches once weather conditions allow and the snow melts.”
Sands, 65, was reported missing on January 13 after he failed to return from a hike in the Mount Baldy region of the San Gabriel Mountains.
Numerous searches for the actor by foot and by air have since been undertaken by both state and local agencies.
Authorities have previously used a Recco device, which can detect electronic devices and credit cards, in hopes of establishing a more precise area in which to focus search efforts.
Last weekend, Sand’s hiking partner and friend Kevin Ryan said it was obvious “something went wrong” but that the actor’s advanced experience and skill would “hopefully” see his safe return.
