Ten skiers missing, 6 trapped after avalanche in north California mountains

Avalanche Traps Six Skiers in Northern California

Rescue teams are working tirelessly to reach six skiers trapped after an avalanche in the Sierra Nevada mountains of northern California. The incident occurred near Lake Tahoe, where a powerful winter storm has made conditions extremely dangerous due to heavy snow and high avalanche risk. Nine other skiers from the same group remain missing. Rescue efforts are hindered by severe weather and the need for extreme caution in accessing the area.

Captain Russell Greene of the sheriff’s office emphasized that the process will be slow and tedious, as both rescuers and the trapped individuals must avoid triggering additional avalanches. The survivors have created a makeshift shelter and are waiting for rescue, communicating with officials via emergency beacons. Authorities learned of the avalanche through notifications from the ski tour company and activations of the skiers' beacons.

Meanwhile, California is experiencing a powerful winter storm, bringing treacherous weather conditions, strong winds, and heavy snow in mountain areas. Several ski resorts around Lake Tahoe have closed due to the extreme weather and avalanche threats. The National Weather Service predicts up to 8 feet of snow in some areas over the next 48 hours.