Avalanche Near Lake Tahoe Leaves Ten Missing

Ten skiers went missing and six others were stranded after an avalanche struck a backcountry slope near Lake Tahoe in California’s Sierra Nevada mountains on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, authorities said. The incident happened during heavy snowfall, which had already made conditions dangerous in the region.

The avalanche occurred in the Castle Peak area of Truckee, California, about 10 miles north of Lake Tahoe. It was reported around 11:30 a.m. Pacific time. A group of 16 skiers was caught in the sudden snow slide while skiing in the backcountry, an area that is not regularly patrolled or controlled like ski resorts.

According to a statement shared by the Nevada County Sheriff’s Office on Facebook, emergency crews responded quickly after receiving reports of the avalanche. Search and rescue teams, including local law enforcement, fire personnel, and trained volunteers, were sent to the area. Some skiers were able to contact authorities, helping rescuers identify the location.

Officials said that deep snow, ongoing snowfall, and unstable terrain are making rescue operations difficult. Helicopters and specialized avalanche rescue teams are being used where possible, but poor visibility and dangerous conditions are slowing progress.

Authorities have urged people to avoid backcountry areas during severe weather and to check avalanche warnings before heading out. Search efforts are continuing as teams work urgently to locate the missing skiers and safely rescue those stranded.