A group of backcountry skiers in Northern California faced a dire situation when an avalanche struck near Frog Lake, by Castle Peak, on Tuesday afternoon. Among a tour group organized by Blackbird Mountain Guides, six skiers were rescued by local authorities, while nine remain missing in the harsh conditions compounded by a fierce snowstorm affecting the area. Two of the individuals rescued were subsequently hospitalized due to their injuries, raising concerns about the wellbeing of the remaining skiers still unaccounted for.

As search and rescue teams worked tirelessly in challenging terrain to locate the missing individuals, officials revealed that the group comprised 15 skiers who were in the final stages of a multi-day backcountry tour. Initial reports had incorrectly counted the group at 16. The avalanche's timing and location underscore the dangers of backcountry skiing, particularly under inclement weather conditions, as rescuers navigated rugged paths for several hours before reaching the survivors, emphasizing the risky nature of such adventures.

This incident raises broader implications about safety measures and preparedness in backcountry skiing, prompting discussions within the skiing community and among safety officials about necessary precautions and training for ski tours. With rescue efforts still ongoing, the focus is squarely on finding the missing skiers and providing support to those affected by this tragic event.