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Avalanche traps skiers near Lake Tahoe
Nine backcountry skiers remain unaccounted for after an avalanche swept through California's Castle Peak area on Tuesday afternoon, authorities confirmed. Six others were rescued, with two requiring hospital treatment.
Rescue efforts underway amid dangerous conditions
The Nevada County Sheriff's Office reported the avalanche at 11:30 PST (19:30 GMT) near Truckee, a town on the northern edge of Lake Tahoe. High avalanche danger persists, with forecasters warning of further slides through early Wednesday.
"Highly skilled rescue ski teams" from nearby resorts have joined the operation, the sheriff's office said. The six survivors were instructed to shelter in place while responders navigate hazardous terrain.
Survivors found; search continues for missing
Officials initially stated 16 people-four guides and 12 clients-were caught in the avalanche, later revising the total to 15. All six rescued skiers were located by Tuesday night, though two sustained injuries requiring medical attention.
Forty-six emergency personnel, including teams from Boreal Mountain Ski Resort and Alder Creek Adventure Center, are attempting to reach the site. Rescuers on skis are advancing cautiously due to the risk of additional avalanches.
Forecasters warn of extreme danger
The Sierra Avalanche Center rated the danger as "high"-four out of five-on Tuesday, predicting a "widespread natural avalanche cycle" over the next 24 hours. The center urged avoidance of all avalanche-prone terrain, noting that slides could even affect forested areas.
"Travel in, near, or below avalanche terrain is not recommended today."
Sierra Avalanche Center
Challenges and criticism
Capt. Russell Greene of the Nevada County Sheriff's Office described the search as "slow and tedious," citing the perilous conditions for rescuers. He questioned the decision to ski in such hazardous weather, though he acknowledged incomplete details about the group's planning.
"It's not uncommon for tour companies to operate in these conditions," Greene told KCRA-TV. "I don't think it was a wise choice."
State and local response
California Governor Gavin Newsom's office announced state authorities were coordinating a large-scale search-and-rescue effort with local teams. Heavy snowfall-30 inches (76 cm) in 24 hours-prompted Boreal Mountain Ski Resort to close on Tuesday due to high winds and poor visibility.
The storm has also shuttered major highways, including Interstate 80 and Highway 50, further complicating access to the affected area.
