Deadly Avalanche Strikes Near Lake Tahoe

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A group of 15 skiers, including four guides, were on a three-day backcountry expedition in the Sierra Nevada when an avalanche struck, killing at least 8 people. Six members of the group were rescued after using emergency beacons and iPhone SOS functions to contact authorities. The National Weather Service had issued avalanche warnings across the region due to rapid snowfall and strong winds, raising questions about why the group was on the mountain.

Why it matters

This tragic incident highlights the dangers of backcountry skiing and the importance of heeding weather warnings, even experienced guides can misjudge rapidly changing conditions. It also raises concerns about the preparedness and safety protocols of outdoor adventure companies operating in remote areas.

The details

The avalanche was the length of a football field and buried the group of skiers. Search-and-rescue teams recovered the bodies of 8 victims, while 1 skier remains missing and presumed killed. Six members of the group were able to be rescued after using emergency beacons and their iPhones' SOS functions to contact authorities. They sheltered under a tarp for hours, braving treacherous blizzard conditions.

• The avalanche occurred on February 17, 2026.
• The National Weather Service had issued avalanche warnings across the greater Lake Tahoe area on the day of the incident.

What they’re saying

What’s next

Search-and-rescue efforts are ongoing to locate the missing skier, and authorities will investigate the incident to determine if any safety protocols were violated.