An avalanche in Northern California has left ten skiers missing, raising concerns about the safety of the area. The incident, which occurred around noon on Tuesday at Castle Peak, involved a group that initially consisted of sixteen customers and four guides. While six skiers were rescued after taking shelter from heavy snowfall beneath a tarp, three of them sustained serious injuries that prevented their evacuation, complicating the ongoing rescue operation. Authorities emphasize that conditions remain hazardous and that rescuing the survivors is currently the top priority.

The sheriff's office has detailed that once the rescued skiers are secured, efforts will shift toward locating the missing individuals. The avalanche struck while the group was in a backcountry skiing area, illustrating the unpredictability and dangers associated with skiing in such locations. Search and rescue teams are facing significant challenges given the current weather and terrain, stressing the importance of safety measures for those venturing into avalanche-prone regions.

As the rescue operation continues, this incident serves as a sobering reminder of the risks involved in winter sports, particularly in backcountry settings, where avalanches can occur with little warning. Efforts by local authorities and rescue teams will be crucial not only in finding the missing skiers but also in assessing and improving safety protocols for future backcountry excursions.