10 Skiers Caught in Sierra Avalanche, Rescue Efforts Underway

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Dozens of rescuers are searching for 10 missing backcountry skiers after an avalanche occurred in the Castle Peak area of Truckee, California. Six skiers survived the initial avalanche and are awaiting rescue, while the search continues for the remaining 10 who were part of a group of 16 skiers. The rescue efforts are taking place amid worsening weather conditions, including heavy snowfall, that have made the operation challenging.

Why it matters

Avalanche incidents in the Sierra Nevada mountains are a serious concern, especially in the backcountry areas where skiers and snowmobilers venture. This event highlights the risks involved in these activities and the importance of proper safety precautions and emergency response capabilities in remote winter environments.

The details

The avalanche occurred around 11:30 a.m. on Tuesday in the Castle Peak area, a popular backcountry skiing destination northwest of Lake Tahoe. The group of 16 skiers, including 4 guides and 12 clients, were caught in the avalanche. Six of the skiers survived and are awaiting rescue, while 10 others remain missing. Highly skilled rescue teams have been deployed from nearby ski resorts to search for the missing skiers, but deteriorating weather conditions, including heavy snowfall, have made the operation challenging.

• The avalanche occurred around 11:30 a.m. on Tuesday, February 17, 2026.
• As of 4:30 p.m. on Tuesday, 10 skiers remained missing.
• By 4 p.m. on Tuesday, 46 emergency first responders had been deployed to the scene.

What’s next

The search and rescue efforts will continue as weather conditions allow, with the goal of locating the 10 missing skiers. The Nevada County Sheriff's Office will provide updates on the status of the operation.