Northern California avalanche leaves multiple skiers missing
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San Francisco — Search-and-rescue crews responded Tuesday after an avalanche struck terrain northwest of Lake Tahoe, locating six skiers and reporting 10 others missing as a powerful winter storm battered the region. Authorities said a 911 call about people buried at about 11:30 a.m. prompted crews from the Nevada County Sheriff's Office, sheriff's Search and Rescue and Cal Fire to deploy to Castle Peak. Officials said 46 responders were working, survivors sheltered in place, and teams in skis and a snowcat advanced in blizzard conditions. The Sierra Avalanche Center warned of high avalanche danger. Based on 7 articles reviewed and research.
Prepared by Emily Rhodes and reviewed by editorial team.
Timeline of Events
- Powerful winter storm increased snowfall and avalanche risk in the Sierra Nevada before Feb. 18.
- About 11:30 a.m. on Feb. 18, a 911 call reported an avalanche with people buried near Castle Peak/Frog Lake.
- Nevada County Sheriff's Office, sheriff's Search and Rescue, and Cal Fire deployed multiple teams to the area.
- Crews located six skiers who sheltered in place while searchers continued efforts for 10 still missing.
- Approximately 46 responders worked in blizzard conditions as the Sierra Avalanche Center warned of high danger.
Why This Matters to You
This avalanche highlights the importance of safety in winter sports. If you're a skier or snowboarder, heed warnings from organizations like the Sierra Avalanche Center. Always check the weather and avalanche conditions before hitting the slopes.
The Bottom Line
Winter sports can be thrilling but also dangerous. This incident reminds us to prioritize safety over adventure. If you know someone who loves winter sports, share this story as a reminder to always be prepared and cautious.
- Articles Published:
- 7
- Right Leaning:
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- 7
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Avalanche forecasters, search-and-rescue teams, and emergency-response agencies gained operational experience, real-time data, and interagency coordination insights that can inform future preparedness and response.
The missing skiers and their families faced immediate danger, trauma, potential injuries, and prolonged uncertainty while local communities and rescuers endured hazardous operating conditions and resource strain.
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Northern California avalanche leaves multiple skiers missing
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