Skiers Dug Out 3 Companions After Avalanche in California

New details show 3 unburied skiers rescued 3 survivors from the deadly slide near Tahoe.

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

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A group of 15 skiers were caught in an avalanche in the California backcountry near Tahoe last week. While 12 were buried, 3 skiers who were not buried were able to quickly locate and dig out 3 of their companions who survived the slide. The group was equipped with avalanche safety gear, but the avalanche struck before they could react.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the importance of avalanche safety training and equipment, as well as the heroic actions of skiers who are able to rescue their buried companions in a race against time. It also raises questions about backcountry safety and the risks faced by skiers, even in well-traveled areas.

The details

According to the Sierra Avalanche Center, the remaining 3 skiers who were not buried immediately rushed to find and dig out 3 of their companions who had been buried in the avalanche. The group was equipped with avalanche beacons, shovels, and probes, which are essential for locating and extracting buried skiers. Digging someone out of an avalanche is extremely difficult and exhausting work.

  • The avalanche occurred on February 15 as the group was exiting the backcountry.
  • Rescue teams were able to bring out the 6 survivors that same night, despite the blizzard conditions.
  • The bodies of the 9 victims were not recovered until the following weekend due to the inclement weather.

The players

Sierra Avalanche Center

A non-profit organization that provides avalanche forecasting and education for the Tahoe region.

Nevada County Sheriff's Office

The law enforcement agency investigating the incident as part of an ongoing criminal probe.

Blackbird Mountain Guides

The company that led the group of skiers on the ill-fated backcountry trip.

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What they’re saying

“Remaining members of the party performed a companion search and were able to rescue 3 buried individuals.”

— Wendy Antibus, Education Coordinator, Sierra Avalanche Center (The Sacramento Bee)

“That does take a substantial amount of work, and it is substantially exhausting.”

— Wendy Antibus, Education Coordinator, Sierra Avalanche Center (The Sacramento Bee)

What’s next

The Nevada County Sheriff's Office is continuing its criminal investigation into the incident.

The takeaway

This tragedy underscores the vital importance of avalanche safety training and equipment, as well as the heroic actions that can save lives when the worst happens in the backcountry. It also raises broader questions about balancing the risks and rewards of outdoor recreation in areas prone to natural disasters.