Deadly Avalanche Near Lake Tahoe Claims Eight Lives, One Still Missing
A devastating avalanche near Lake Tahoe, California, has resulted in the deaths of eight backcountry skiers, with one skier still missing as of Wednesday, February 18, 2026. The incident, which occurred on Tuesday afternoon in the Castle Peak area of the Sierra Nevada range, is the deadliest avalanche in the United States since 1981.
Avalanche Details and Rescue Efforts
Authorities were alerted to the avalanche on Tuesday after receiving a 911 call reporting that 15 skiers were buried by the slide. Six skiers were rescued on Tuesday, and as of Wednesday, eight have been confirmed dead. The search for the remaining missing skier is ongoing, but officials have stated they are “presumed deceased.”
The group was on a three-day trek when the avalanche struck amidst a powerful storm that brought heavy snow, rain, and wind to California. Dangerous conditions and the threat of further avalanches initially hampered search and rescue operations. The Nevada County Sheriff’s Office is leading the recovery efforts.
Victims and Survivors
The victims include seven women and two men, ranging in age from 30 to 55. Three of the four guides accompanying the group were among those killed. One guide was among the survivors. One of the rescued skiers remained hospitalized on Wednesday.
Avalanche Conditions and Warnings
The Sierra Avalanche Center had issued warnings of very dangerous avalanche conditions in the Lake Tahoe area, forecasting the risk to continue through Thursday morning. The area near Donner Summit is known for its heavy snowfall and was previously closed to the public due to avalanche risks.
Deadliest Avalanche in Decades
This avalanche is the deadliest in the U.S. In more than four decades, surpassing a 1981 incident on Mount Rainier, Washington, where 11 climbers lost their lives. Authorities are investigating the decision-making process of the guide company that led the group on the excursion, given the existing avalanche forecasts.
Key Takeaways
- Eight backcountry skiers have died in an avalanche near Lake Tahoe.
- One skier remains missing and is presumed deceased.
- Six skiers were rescued.
- The avalanche is the deadliest in the U.S. Since 1981.
- Dangerous avalanche conditions were present in the area.
This tragedy underscores the inherent risks of backcountry skiing and the importance of heeding avalanche warnings. Further updates will be provided as the search and investigation continue.
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