Authorities search for nine skiers missing after a California avalanche near Lake Tahoe
Rescue crews in California are searching for nine skiers missing after a large avalanche hit near Castle Peak, northwest of Truckee. The incident occurred on Tuesday morning when a group of 15 backcountry skiers descended the mountain.
Authorities said six skiers survived. Two of them sustained injuries and are now under hospital care. The remaining nine have not been located.
The skiers were part of a guided expedition organized by Blackbird Mountain Guides. The group included four guides and 11 clients. They had been on a three-day skiing trip in remote terrain.
Avalanche struck at 11:30 a.m. local time, sweeping down the slope. Survivors said they tried to dig themselves out and used emergency beacons to signal rescuers.
Rescuers are confronting heavy snow, high winds, and whiteout conditions. Teams on the ground and snowcats work carefully to avoid triggering additional slides.
The National Weather Service issued a high avalanche warning. Crews must navigate steep slopes covered with deep snow. Snow accumulation has reached several feet, slowing the rescue effort.
Six skiers were rescued alive. Emergency personnel treated two at the site before transporting them to hospitals. Officials gathered information from survivors to narrow the search area for the nine missing.
βThe situation is very dangerous. Rescuers move cautiously to ensure their own safety,β said Capt. Russell Greene of Nevada County Sheriffβs Office.
Authorities closed Interstate 80 over Donner Summit due to low visibility and snow accumulation. Rescue teams coordinate with state and local authorities for extra support.
Experts rated the avalanche as D2.5 in danger. This rating indicates significant potential to bury and injure people. Authorities warned that snow layers in the region remain unstable.
The National Weather Service predicts up to 8 feet of snow in the next 48 hours. Ski resorts in Lake Tahoe have partially or fully closed to protect visitors.
Backcountry skiing requires experience in unmarked, remote areas. Participants carry avalanche beacons, shovels, and emergency equipment. Despite these precautions, sudden avalanches can overwhelm even experienced skiers.
Blackbird Mountain Guides are cooperating with authorities and staying in contact with families. Officials urged anyone in the area to avoid the slopes until conditions improve.
California Governor Gavin Newsom has been briefed. State emergency teams coordinate with local authorities to provide support.
Officials plan a press briefing when weather allows. They hope to give updated information about the nine missing skiers.
Avalanches in the Sierra Nevada have increased after heavy snowfall this winter. Experts advise caution, especially in backcountry regions with unstable snowpack.
Last year, a similar slide injured four skiers near Donner Summit. The incident underscored the importance of preparedness and rescue equipment.
Families of the missing skiers remain anxious. Authorities have set up hotlines for information and updates. Emergency responders are working around the clock to reach the missing group.
Summary and outlook
- Location: Castle Peak, northwest of Truckee, California
- Missing: 9 skiers
- Rescued: 6 skiers (2 injured)
- Weather conditions: Heavy snow, high winds, low visibility
- Warnings: National Weather Service avalanche alert; high risk continues
Rescue teams continue to search in dangerous conditions. Officials emphasized patience, safety, and coordination.
