Rescue services in Northern California are conducting a dramatic search operation following a massive avalanche near Castle Peak. The avalanche swept away a group of fifteen backcountry skiers. While six people have been rescued, including two requiring hospitalization, nine members of the expedition remain missing. The operation is hampered by extreme weather conditions, including a violent snowstorm reducing visibility to almost zero.

Search Ongoing for Nine Individuals

Rescuers in California are searching for nine skiers after an avalanche in the Truckee area. Six out of a group of 15 people have been rescued so far.

Extreme Weather Conditions

Heavy snowfall and lack of visibility are hampering the operation. A nearby highway has been closed for the safety of travelers and rescuers.

Injured in Hospital

Two of the six rescued skiers were taken to a hospital. Their health condition is being monitored by the medical services of Nevada County.

A tragic event in the Lake Tahoe region of Northern California has mobilized numerous rescue teams. On Tuesday night into Wednesday, a powerful avalanche descended on the slopes of Castle Peak, sweeping away a group of skiers. Initial reports indicated sixteen people were involved in the expedition, but the Nevada County Sheriff's Office corrected this data, confirming the involvement of fifteen individuals. Among them were both professional guides and their clients, who were practicing backcountry skiing in difficult, high-altitude terrain. The conditions on-site are described by rescuers as extremely difficult. Heavy snowfall and gusty winds have reduced visibility to zero, forcing the closure of a nearby highway. Despite this, rescue teams managed to reach six individuals. Two of them sustained injuries requiring immediate transport to a hospital. The fate of the remaining nine skiers remains unknown. The services are trying to use every moment before nightfall, though the nighttime conditions in the Sierra Nevada mountains drastically reduce the chances of safely conducting operations in terrain threatened by secondary avalanches. The Sierra Nevada mountains are among the snowiest regions in the United States, and the history of expeditions to these areas dates back to the Gold Rush era, when harsh winters repeatedly cut off settlers from the world, leading to tragic events such as the famous Donner Party expedition of 1846. Sheriff's Office spokeswoman Ashley Quadros reported that the current priority is securing the area and attempting to establish contact with individuals who may be trapped under layers of snow. Specialists warn that sudden warming preceded by intense snowfall created ideal conditions for slab avalanches. The operation is supported by helicopters, weather permitting, and specialized units with avalanche dogs. „Rescue teams are racing against time and the elements to find the missing before the already dramatic weather situation worsens.” — Ashley Quadros 9 osób — are still missing under the snowTimeline of Events in Nevada County: February 17, 11:00 — Avalanche Descends; February 17, 14:30 — Six People Rescued; February 18, 02:00 — Snowstorm Intensifies; February 18, 07:44 — Missing Persons Count Updated

Mentioned People

  • Ashley Quadros — Spokesperson for the Nevada County Sheriff's Office responsible for communication regarding the rescue operation.