Crews Search for Missing Backcountry Skiers After Avalanche in California Mountains

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

Published on Feb. 19, 2026

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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. The Nevada County Sheriff's Office received a 911 call about the avalanche near Castle Peak, a popular backcountry skiing destination northwest of Lake Tahoe.

Why it matters

Avalanches pose a serious threat to backcountry enthusiasts, with 25-30 avalanche-related deaths occurring each winter in the U.S. The dangerous conditions in the Sierra Nevada, including high winds and heavy snowfall, have led to the closure of several ski resorts in the region, highlighting the risks faced by those venturing into the backcountry.

The details

According to the Sierra Avalanche Center, the Central Sierra Nevada region, including the Greater Lake Tahoe area, was facing high avalanche danger on Tuesday and into Wednesday due to rapidly accumulating snowfall on fragile snowpack layers and gale-force winds. Authorities are searching the Castle Peak area for the missing skiers, but the extreme weather conditions are making the rescue efforts challenging.

  • The Nevada County Sheriff's Office received a 911 call about the avalanche at around 11:30 a.m. on Tuesday, February 17, 2026.
  • The powerful winter storm is expected to continue through late Wednesday, February 18, 2026.

The players

Nevada County Sheriff's Office

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

California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection

The state agency that is assisting the sheriff's office in the search and rescue operation.

Sierra Avalanche Center

The organization that provides avalanche forecasting and information for the Tahoe National Forest and surrounding areas.

Brandon Schwartz

The Tahoe National Forest lead avalanche forecaster at the Sierra Avalanche Center.

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What they’re saying

“It's particularly dangerous in the backcountry right now just because we're at the height of the storm.”

— Brandon Schwartz, Tahoe National Forest lead avalanche forecaster (trumbulltimes.com)

What’s next

The Nevada County Sheriff's Office and search and rescue teams will continue their efforts to locate the missing backcountry skiers as the powerful winter storm continues to impact the region.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the critical importance of heeding avalanche warnings and exercising extreme caution when venturing into the backcountry, especially during periods of severe winter weather. Proper preparation, equipment, and knowledge of the conditions are essential for staying safe in these environments.