Missing Skiers After Avalanche in Castle Peak Area

Missing Backcountry Skiers After Avalanche in Castle Peak Area

Several backcountry skiers have gone missing after an avalanche hit the Castle Peak area, which is north of Truckee. This happened during a strong winter storm that brought heavy snow and strong winds to the Lake Tahoe region. The situation is serious and evolving.

Details About the Avalanche Incident

On Tuesday, around 11:30 a.m., the Nevada County Sheriff’s Office received reports of an avalanche involving a group of skiers. This group was in steep backcountry terrain near Donner Pass. By Tuesday afternoon, officials confirmed that multiple people from this group were still unaccounted for.

Rescue Operations Underway

As of 4 p.m. Tuesday, a total of 10 skiers are missing out of the original group of 16, which included four ski guides and 12 clients. At least six skiers survived and are currently at the avalanche site. Rescue teams from Boreal Mountain Ski Resort and Tahoe Donner’s Alder Creek Adventure Center are working hard to reach them.

• Rescue teams are made up of 46 emergency responders.
• Survivors are advised to shelter in place as conditions permit.
• A SnoCat team has also been dispatched from Alder Creek Adventure Center.

Ongoing Avalanche Risks in the Lake Tahoe Region

The Sierra Avalanche Center has issued multiple warnings about avalanche dangers. The current avalanche warning is in effect until Wednesday morning. They indicate that a “HIGH” avalanche danger exists, and large avalanches are expected.

Conditions Contributing to Avalanche Danger

This winter season has seen repeated avalanche activity in the Castle Peak area. Just last month, a separate avalanche led to the death of a man snowmobiling nearby. The persistent danger is due to an unstable snowpack.

• Avalanche risk continues to be high in the central Sierra Nevada.
• Weather conditions remain hazardous due to heavy snowfall and strong winds.

Impact of the Winter Storm on Travel and Local Services

The powerful winter storm has severely impacted travel throughout the Sierra Nevada. Many major routes are closed, and travel is not safe. The California Highway Patrol has advised drivers to avoid unnecessary travel.

Major Road Closures and Travel Warnings

• Interstate 80 is closed from Colfax to the Nevada state line.
• Mount Rose Highway and U.S. 50 are also affected by closures and chain controls.
• Travelers are urged to check road conditions before heading out.

Flight Cancellations and School Closures

Reno-Tahoe International Airport is experiencing many flight cancellations and delays due to the storm. By mid-afternoon, at least seven flights had been canceled, with delays ranging from one to eight hours.

Community Disruptions

• The Washoe County School District canceled classes.
• Several state offices and service programs have shifted to remote operations.
• Mobile food distributions by the Food Bank of Northern Nevada were also canceled.

Safety Reminders for Outdoor Enthusiasts

Officials remind everyone that avalanche conditions are extremely dangerous. They encourage backcountry skiers and snowboarders to avoid risky areas. With the ongoing search and rescue efforts, safety must be the priority.

“Stay home if you can, delay travel if possible, and respect the hazards posed by the powerful winter weather gripping the Sierra Nevada,” officials stated.

The Nevada County Sheriff’s Office continues to monitor the situation and will provide updates as they become available.