by Nevada County, California — A devastating avalanche near Lake Tahoe has left eight skiers dead and a ninth still missing but presumed deceased, authorities confirmed Wednesday.
The slide occurred near Castle Peak in Nevada County, north of Boreal Mountain Ski Resort, around 11:30 a.m. Tuesday, as a powerful winter storm brought blizzard conditions to higher elevations.
According to the Nevada County Sheriff’s Office, a total of 15 backcountry skiers were caught in the avalanche.
Eight Confirmed Dead, Ninth Presumed Deceased
Officials said that nine skiers were initially reported missing following the avalanche.
By Wednesday morning, search crews intensified efforts during a break in the weather. Later that day, sheriff’s officials announced that eight of the nine missing skiers had been located and confirmed dead.
Search efforts continued for the ninth person, but authorities said they are presuming the individual has also died based on the severity of the scene and conditions.
At this time, officials noted that none of the bodies have been removed due to ongoing avalanche danger. Crews placed avalanche markers to relocate the victims when conditions allow.
Guided Backcountry Trip
The skiers were part of a guided trip led by Blackbird Mountain Guides.
The company said the group was returning from a three-day trip at Frog Lake. The party consisted of four ski guides and 11 clients.
In a statement, Blackbird founder Zeb Blais described the tragedy as the most devastating event in the company’s history.
“This was an enormous tragedy, and the saddest event our team has ever experienced,” Blais said. “In addition to mourning the loss of six clients, we also mourn the loss of three highly experienced members of our guide team.”
Blais noted that each guide was certified or formally trained in backcountry skiing, and all four were certified instructors affiliated with the American Institute for Avalanche Research and Education.
Blackbird Mountain Guides has suspended all field operations through at least Feb. 22.
Six Survivors Rescued
Authorities confirmed that six people survived and were rescued from the avalanche site.
The survivors included one man and five women, ranging in age from 30 to 55 years old. One of the six was a Blackbird Mountain Guide.
Two survivors were hospitalized for treatment. Officials said one has been stabilized, while the other remains under medical care.
Avalanche Warning in Effect
At the time of the incident, an Avalanche Warning rated “high” danger was in effect, according to the Sierra Avalanche Center.
Search crews continued working Wednesday under dangerous conditions, with elevated avalanche risk still present.
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Officials emphasized the inherent dangers of backcountry terrain, especially during active storm systems.
They also referenced a January avalanche near Castle Peak that claimed the life of a snowmobiler, underscoring ongoing hazards in the region.
Community Impact
The Sugar Bowl Academy released a statement confirming that multiple academy members were among those who died. Sugar Bowl Academy is a private school and a gold-certified U.S. Ski and Snowboard club serving athletes ages 5 to 20.
Authorities continue recovery efforts as weather permits.
What are your thoughts on backcountry safety during high avalanche risk periods? Share your perspective in the comments below.
