The survivor of an Alaskan avalanche, Dr. Lia Freeman (Caroleen Feeney) is an environmentalist concerned about a similar disaster occurring if a proposed new oil pipeline is built. Freeman adamantly warns the planners of the likelihood of a major avalanche, but they ignore her pleas. As she realizes that a massive whiteout is imminent, Freeman tries to get the citizens of a nearby town to leave, aided by brave helicopter pilot Neal Meekin (Thomas Ian Griffith).