Avalanche Claims Lives of Experienced Skiers Near Lake Tahoe
A devastating avalanche on Castle Peak, near Lake Tahoe, California, has claimed the lives of nine experienced backcountry skiers, marking one of the deadliest avalanche disasters in U.S. History. The tragedy unfolded on , as the group was completing a three-day expedition during a period of heavy snowfall.
The Nevada County Sheriff’s Office received the initial 911 call just before noon on , reporting the avalanche on the 9,110-foot mountain north of the Donner summit. Six skiers were rescued on Tuesday, but the search for the missing skiers continued for days under treacherous conditions. All nine bodies have now been recovered, according to authorities.
The group consisted of four ski guides and twelve clients, all reportedly experienced skiers. Captain Russell “Rusty” Greene of the Nevada County Sheriff’s Office described how the avalanche overtook the group quickly after someone yelled a warning. The bodies of the eight skiers found on Wednesday were located relatively close together, with three of the deceased being guides.
The rescue operation was hampered by ongoing severe weather. The University of California, Berkeley’s Central Sierra Snow Lab reported 28 inches of snow on the day of the avalanche, with an additional three feet expected in the following two days. This created a high risk of further avalanches during the recovery efforts.
The tragedy has deeply impacted the families and friends of those lost. Reports indicate that six of the victims were mothers. The families are reportedly devastated by the loss, describing the women as wives, mothers and friends who shared a love for the outdoors.
While more than 66 inches of snow had fallen over three days leading up to the avalanche, authorities have noted that the storm itself was not considered extraordinary for the Sierra Nevada region. However, the conditions clearly contributed to the heightened avalanche risk.
The incident has prompted reflection within the skiing community, with some questioning the risks associated with backcountry skiing. One individual, sharing their experience online, described how a series of tragedies during ski week – a popular break for schools in California and Western states – led to a personal reassessment of their own family’s skiing habits. They expressed gratitude for their family’s safety but questioned whether they would continue skiing this season, emphasizing the importance of evolving parenting choices based on current circumstances.
According to a statement from a backcountry tour company founder, the skiers involved had affirmed their skills and acknowledged the inherent risks of backcountry skiing. The investigation into the cause of the avalanche is ongoing, but the focus remains on supporting the families and communities affected by this tragic event.
The recovery of the victims from the mountain has been delayed due to the extreme conditions. Authorities are working to safely remove the bodies and provide closure to the grieving families. This avalanche represents the deadliest such incident in the U.S. In nearly half a century.
