Six backcountry skiers were rescued after an avalanche struck during a significant snowstorm near Lake Tahoe in Northern California, though nine others from their group remain unaccounted for amid perilous mountain conditions.
According to the Nevada County Sheriff’s Office, two of the rescued individuals were taken to the hospital for treatment. Officials clarified late Tuesday that the group consisted of 15 skiers, not the 16 that was initially reported.
A 911 call indicated the avalanche occurred near Frog Lake in the Castle Peak vicinity, which is northwest of Lake Tahoe, engulfing several individuals. Rescue teams worked for hours to navigate through challenging terrain and potentially dangerous conditions to reach the survivors.
The skiers were concluding a three-day backcountry tour organized by Blackbird Mountain Guides. This expedition involved traversing up to four miles of mountainous landscape, with participants carrying food and supplies while spending nights in remote huts.
Authorities reported that the emergency beacons the group had with them were crucial in locating their positions. Rescuers proceeded with caution due to the lingering threat of additional avalanches.
The incident coincided with a powerful winter storm that unleashed heavy snow and fierce winds across the Sierra Nevada mountains. Avalanche warnings were prevalent in the region, and forecasters cautioned about the possibility of significant landslides into the next day.
Soda Springs, located near the avalanche site, recorded over 30 inches of snow in a 24-hour period. The combination of fast snow accumulation and high winds contributed to unstable snow conditions.
The storm caused widespread travel issues as well. Interstate 80 beyond Donner Summit faced temporary closures due to vehicle spinouts and accidents, prompting several Tahoe ski resorts to partially or fully shut down because of hazardous weather.
Officials emphasized that the conditions in the backcountry remain particularly risky, advising people to steer clear of areas prone to avalanches.
A press conference is scheduled for Wednesday morning to provide additional updates concerning the search for the missing skiers.
