10 Skiers Missing After Avalanche Engulfs Guided Ski Group Near Tahoe
A backcountry avalanche near Castle Peak outside Truckee has triggered a major rescue response amid one of the most powerful storms of the season.
According to the Nevada County Sheriff’s Office, a group of 16 skiers encountered the slide around 11:30 a.m. Tuesday. The party included four guides and 12 clients. As of the latest update, six skiers have survived and remain at the scene awaiting rescue. Ten others are still unaccounted for.
Rescue teams from Boreal Mountain and Tahoe Donner’s Alder Creek Adventure Center have deployed highly trained ski units to reach the known survivors, who have been instructed to shelter in place. A SnoCat team has also been sent into the area. In total, 46 emergency responders are involved in the ongoing operation.
The incident comes as the Sierra is being hammered by heavy snowfall and strong winds. The Sierra Avalanche Center issued a HIGH avalanche danger warning for the backcountry, cautioning that large natural avalanches are expected through at least early Wednesday.
Multiple agencies, including Nevada and Placer County Sheriff’s offices, regional search and rescue teams, and Truckee Fire, are assisting.
The situation remains active. Backcountry travel is strongly discouraged under current storm conditions.
