In Northern California, an avalanche near Lake Tahoe has led to the disappearance of nine skiers. The incident occurred during a severe winter storm, prompting substantial rescue efforts. Six skiers who survived the avalanche were trapped under snow and ice, and two of them are now hospitalized, according to Nevada County Sheriff’s Office spokesperson Ashley Quadros. Initially, authorities reported ten missing individuals, but later clarified that only 15 were part of the skiing expedition in the Castle Peak area of Sierra Nevada, correcting an earlier count which had mistakenly reported 16.

Rescue operations have mobilized over 50 rescuers amid challenging conditions in the mountainous region. These extreme circumstances compounded the difficulty of reaching the trapped individuals, as rescuers needed to navigate carefully to avoid triggering additional avalanches. The backcountry skiing group was participating in an outdoor activity that requires experience in managing unpredictable weather and terrain, which has now raised questions about safety protocols for winter sports in the area, especially during severe conditions.

This incident underscores the risks associated with backcountry skiing in regions prone to avalanches. As search efforts continue, local authorities are likely to analyze the incident to develop better safety measures for future skiing activities and to prepare for similar situations, emphasizing the necessity for awareness of current weather conditions among skiers and outdoor enthusiasts.