Avalanche in the Sierra Nevada: eight skiers have died, one is missing
19 february 2026 в 00:13
On February 17, Tuesday, an avalanche struck a group of skiers in the Castle Peak area of the Sierra Nevada, about 16 kilometers from Lake Tahoe, near Truckee, California. The massive snow slide occurred around 11:30 AM local time amid a severe winter storm that brought heavy snowfall, strong winds, and whiteout conditions across the region. The Sierra Avalanche Center had previously issued a warning of «high avalanche danger», - cautioning that large snow slides were likely in mountainous areas.
The group consisted of 15 skiers, including four guides and 11 clients, and was on a three-day excursion organized by the ski company Blackbird Mountain Guides. The group was returning from the Frog Lake cabins when the avalanche hit them.
The ski company stated in a news release on its website that «the team at Blackbird Mountain Guides is fully engaged in assisting with the search and rescue efforts on site as we navigate this incredibly challenging situation alongside those involved».
Unfortunately, eight skiers were found dead on Wednesday, February 18. One person is still reported missing, according to The New York Times. A ninth missing person is considered deceased, authorities said. Several survivors of the avalanche were rescued.
Fortunately, six individuals were found and rescued. Due to the dangerous weather conditions, the six survivors had to take shelter under tarps and maintained communication through emergency beacons and text messages while rescue teams worked on their evacuation.
Later, on February 18, rescue teams finally reached the survivors and were able to evacuate them.
Events are still unfolding…
The group consisted of 15 skiers, including four guides and 11 clients, and was on a three-day excursion organized by the ski company Blackbird Mountain Guides. The group was returning from the Frog Lake cabins when the avalanche hit them.
The ski company stated in a news release on its website that «the team at Blackbird Mountain Guides is fully engaged in assisting with the search and rescue efforts on site as we navigate this incredibly challenging situation alongside those involved».
Unfortunately, eight skiers were found dead on Wednesday, February 18. One person is still reported missing, according to The New York Times. A ninth missing person is considered deceased, authorities said. Several survivors of the avalanche were rescued.
Fortunately, six individuals were found and rescued. Due to the dangerous weather conditions, the six survivors had to take shelter under tarps and maintained communication through emergency beacons and text messages while rescue teams worked on their evacuation.
Later, on February 18, rescue teams finally reached the survivors and were able to evacuate them.
Events are still unfolding…
© Puhova Marina
