Deadly California Avalanche Linked to Snow Drought

Experts say lack of consistent snowfall set stage for unstable conditions that led to tragedy.

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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A weekslong 'snow drought' in Northern California's Sierra Nevada helped set the stage for Tuesday's deadly avalanche near Lake Tahoe, after several feet of new snow fell on an earlier layer that had hardened, making it unstable and easily triggered, experts say. The avalanche killed at least eight backcountry skiers, with six survivors and one person still missing.

Why it matters

Avalanches are a major risk in the Sierra Nevada, and this tragedy highlights the dangers posed by unstable snowpack conditions that can develop during periods of inconsistent snowfall. Understanding the factors that contribute to avalanche risk is crucial for improving safety for outdoor enthusiasts in the region.

The details

The new snow did not have time to bond to the earlier hardened layer before the avalanche occurred, creating an unstable 'storm slab' that was easily triggered. Authorities had issued avalanche warnings, and the group was on a three-day backcountry trek when the avalanche struck. Rescuers are still searching for one missing skier.

  • Since January, the Sierra Nevada had experienced a 'snow drought' with dry and clear weather.
  • On Sunday, the group started their three-day backcountry trek in the Tahoe National Forest.
  • On Tuesday morning, the avalanche occurred after 3-6 feet of new snow had fallen since Sunday.

The players

Craig Clements

A meteorology professor at San Jose State University who has conducted avalanche research.

Shannan Moon

The Nevada County Sheriff, who said investigators would look into the decision to proceed with the trip despite the storm forecast.

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What they’re saying

“Because it's on a mountain, it will slide, when it's triggered by any change in the tension above or below, sometimes naturally but also because of people traversing the area.”

— Craig Clements, Meteorology Professor

“Avalanches are a mechanism of how much snow falls on weak or stable layers, and this one was 'a meteorological phenomenon, not a climate phenomenon.'”

— Craig Clements, Meteorology Professor

What’s next

Investigators will look into the decision to proceed with the trip despite the storm forecast.

The takeaway

This tragic avalanche highlights the importance of understanding the complex factors that contribute to avalanche risk in the Sierra Nevada, including the role of inconsistent snowfall patterns, in order to improve safety for outdoor enthusiasts in the region.