Avalanche Hits Skiers Near Truckee, California

Rescue crews search for 10 missing skiers as 6 others await rescue amid blizzard conditions.

Feb. 20, 2026 at 5:39am

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An avalanche struck a group of 16 skiers near the town of Truckee, California on Tuesday, leaving 10 people unaccounted for and 6 others stranded as rescue teams work to reach them amid blizzard conditions.

Why it matters

Avalanches pose a serious threat to backcountry skiers, especially in areas with high snowfall and steep terrain like the Sierra Nevada mountains. This incident highlights the dangers of skiing in avalanche-prone areas and the importance of proper safety precautions and rescue preparedness.

The details

The avalanche occurred around 11:30 am in the Castle Peak area near Truckee. The group included 4 mountain guides and 12 other skiers. At least 6 skiers survived the avalanche and remained at the site awaiting rescue, while 10 others were unaccounted for. Rescue teams from local ski resorts were dispatched to the area, but blizzard conditions were hampering search and rescue efforts.

  • The avalanche was reported around 11:30 am on February 17, 2026.
  • As of 3:45 pm on February 17, 2026, 6 skiers were still awaiting rescue.

The players

Nevada County Sheriff's Office

The local law enforcement agency that responded to the avalanche incident and provided updates on the rescue efforts.

Boreal Mountain Ski Resort

A local ski resort that sent rescue teams to assist in the search for the missing and stranded skiers.

Alder Creek Adventure Center

A local recreation and ski organization that also sent rescue teams to the avalanche site.

Sierra Avalanche Center

The organization that had issued a warning about high avalanche danger in the area prior to the incident.

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What they’re saying

“Travel in, near, or below avalanche terrain is not recommended today. A widespread natural avalanche cycle is expected over the next 24 hours. Large avalanches may run through treed areas. If attempting travel today in non-avalanche terrain, be certain that there are no steeper slopes connected to the terrain you are traveling, either above or to the side.”

— Sierra Avalanche Center

What’s next

Rescue teams will continue searching for the 10 missing skiers as weather conditions allow. The Nevada County Sheriff's Office will provide updates on the status of the rescue operation.

The takeaway

This incident underscores the importance of heeding avalanche warnings and exercising extreme caution when skiing in backcountry areas, especially during periods of heavy snowfall. Proper preparation, equipment, and awareness of weather and snow conditions are crucial to staying safe in avalanche-prone terrain.