Avalanche Near Lake Tahoe Leaves 10 Skiers Missing

Truckee, California – As of Wednesday, February 18, 2026, a search and rescue operation is underway for 10 backcountry skiers who remain unaccounted for after an avalanche struck near Lake Tahoe on Tuesday, February 17, 2026. Six skiers have been found alive, but are awaiting rescue.

Avalanche Details

The avalanche occurred in the Castle Peak area near Truckee, California, at approximately 11:30 a.m. On Tuesday. A group of 16 skiers – comprised of four guides and 12 clients – were affected according to the Nevada County Sheriff’s Office.

Rescue Efforts

Nearly 50 first responders are involved in the search and rescue operation. The six surviving skiers are sheltering in place while rescue teams work to reach them. Rescue teams from Boreal Mountain Ski Resort and the Alder Creek Adventure Center are assisting in the effort as reported by ABC7 News. Conditions are challenging due to blizzard conditions and significant snowfall, with Boreal Mountain Ski Resort reporting around 30 inches of snowfall in the past 24 hours.

Avalanche Conditions and Warnings

The Sierra Avalanche Center had issued an avalanche warning prior to the incident, stating that travel in or near avalanche terrain was not recommended. The bulletin warned of a widespread natural avalanche cycle and the potential for large avalanches, even in treed areas as detailed by CNN. The dangerous conditions are attributed to rapidly accumulating snowfall, weakening snowpack layers, and strong winds.

Backcountry Skiing in the Area

Castle Peak is a popular destination for backcountry skiing, located along Interstate 80. The group involved in the avalanche was on the last day of a three-day backcountry skiing trip, navigating rugged terrain and carrying all necessary supplies according to Steve Reynaud, a Tahoe National Forest avalanche forecaster.

Ongoing Situation

The search for the 10 missing skiers continues. Authorities have stated that conditions in the mountains remain “highly dangerous.” Updates will be provided as they develop into available.