Avalanche Near Lake Tahoe Leaves Skiers Missing, Rescue Efforts Underway

February 18, 2026 (modified February 18, 2026 | 06:28)

A large avalanche struck near Lake Tahoe, California, on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, leaving ten off-piste skiers missing and six others rescued. The incident occurred around 11:30 am local time at an altitude of approximately 2,500 meters (8,200 feet) near Castle Peak in the Sierra Nevada mountains.

Avalanche Details and Rescue Operation

The Sierra Avalanche Center classified the avalanche as “incredibly large,” indicating its potential to bury or seriously injure individuals. Nearly 50 rescuers are currently involved in the search and rescue operation, working to reach survivors and locate the missing skiers. The group consisted of 12 skiers and 4 guides who were on the final day of a three-day off-piste skiing trip.

According to Nevada County Sheriff Russell Greene, authorities were alerted to the avalanche by the ski company organizing the trip and by emergency beacons carried by the skiers. The skiers are communicating with authorities via their emergency beacons, sending text messages to provide updates on their situation.

Rescued skiers have reportedly taken refuge in a makeshift shelter constructed with a tarp and are focused on survival while awaiting assistance. Rescue teams are proceeding with caution due to the continued high risk of additional avalanches.

Dangerous Conditions and Avalanche Risk

The avalanche occurred during a significant winter storm impacting California, bringing dangerous thunderstorms, strong winds, and heavy snowfall to mountainous regions. Steve Reynaud, an avalanche expert from the Sierra Avalanche Center, noted that the routes taken by the group presented “numerous avalanche risks.”

The group had spent two nights in shelters during their hike, requiring them to traverse “rugged mountain terrain” on touring skis while carrying all necessary food and supplies.

Ongoing Situation

Rescue efforts are ongoing, and authorities are prioritizing the safety of both the rescuers and the skiers. Further updates will be provided as the situation develops.