Crews Search for Backcountry Skiers After Avalanche in California Mountains

Powerful winter storm brings high avalanche danger to the Sierra Nevada region.

Published on Feb. 20, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Search and rescue crews are looking for multiple backcountry skiers feared missing after a reported avalanche in Northern California's Sierra Nevada mountains as a powerful winter storm moves through the state, authorities said. The Nevada County Sheriff's Office received a 911 call about an avalanche with people buried near the Castle Peak area northwest of Lake Tahoe.

Why it matters

Avalanches pose a serious threat to backcountry skiers and snowmobilers in the Sierra Nevada mountains, especially during severe winter storms. This incident highlights the dangers of venturing into high-risk avalanche terrain and the importance of proper safety precautions and emergency response capabilities in remote mountain areas.

The details

According to the sheriff's office, a group of backcountry skiers was involved in the incident, with several members of the party missing. The sheriff's office, search and rescue team, and California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection responded to the area. The Sierra Avalanche Center had warned of high avalanche danger in the region due to rapidly accumulating snowfall, weakening snowpack layers, and gale-force winds.

  • The 911 call reporting the avalanche was received at around 11:30 a.m. on Tuesday, February 18, 2026.
  • The powerful winter storm is expected to continue through late Wednesday, February 19, 2026.

The players

Nevada County Sheriff's Office

The local law enforcement agency that received the 911 call and is leading the search and rescue efforts.

Sierra Avalanche Center

The organization that had warned of high avalanche danger in the region due to the severe winter storm conditions.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“It has been reported that a group of back country skiers was involved in the incident, with several members of the party missing at this time.”

— Nevada County Sheriff's Office (Facebook post)

What’s next

The search and rescue efforts are ongoing, and the sheriff's office will provide updates as more information becomes available. The dangerous winter storm conditions are expected to continue, which may impact the search and rescue operations.

The takeaway

This incident serves as a stark reminder of the risks associated with backcountry skiing and the importance of exercising extreme caution and preparedness when venturing into high-avalanche-risk areas, especially during severe winter storms. It also highlights the critical role of search and rescue teams in responding to emergencies in remote mountain regions.