At least eight skiers died and a ninth is presumed dead after a powerful avalanche struck California’s Sierra Nevada mountains, authorities said Wednesday, making it one of the deadliest such disasters in US history. The slide hit the Castle Peak area near Truckee on Tuesday morning, burying a group of backcountry skiers during a guided excursion.
Rescuers on skis managed to reach six survivors despite blinding snow and strong winds from a major winter storm that had dumped several feet of fresh snow. One injured skier remains hospitalized with non-life-threatening injuries. Survivors sheltered under makeshift cover and used radio beacons and text messages to guide rescuers to their location.
Two rescue teams of about 50 members approached the site from opposite directions, deploying snowcats before skiing the final miles. Authorities said the avalanche stretched roughly the length of a football field and engulfed skiers finishing a three-day tour with a guiding company.
Warnings issued as investigations begin
Officials said the eight victims were located with active avalanche beacons, but recovery efforts may take time due to dangerous conditions. One of the dead was married to a member of the search-and-rescue team.
The group included guides and clients staying near Donner Summit, an area known for heavy snowfall. Authorities noted forecasts had warned of significant avalanche danger, and discussions with the guiding company are ongoing.
Meanwhile, avalanche warnings remain in effect as officials caution backcountry enthusiasts about continued risks following the deadly slide.
