Nine Skiers Still Missing After California Avalanche

Six others rescued from stranded group in Sierra Nevada mountains

Published on Feb. 21, 2026

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Nine skiers remain missing after an avalanche struck a group of 15 backcountry skiers in California's Sierra Nevada mountains on Tuesday. Six others from the group were rescued and taken to a hospital with various injuries. The search for the missing skiers continues amidst dangerous conditions, including the risk of further avalanches due to a recent winter storm that has blanketed the region with several feet of fresh, unstable snow.

Why it matters

Avalanches are a serious threat in the Sierra Nevada mountains, which are known for their heavy snowfall. This incident highlights the dangers faced by backcountry skiers and the importance of avalanche safety and rescue efforts in these remote, snowy regions.

The details

The avalanche occurred around 11:30 a.m. Pacific time on Tuesday in the Castle Peak area of Truckee, California, about 10 miles north of Lake Tahoe. The group of 15 skiers, including four guides and 12 clients, were part of a tour organized by Blackbird Mountain Guides. The survivors took refuge in a makeshift shelter and communicated with rescuers via radio beacon and text messaging. Authorities have warned that the search for the remaining skiers will be a slow process due to the dangerous conditions, including the risk of further avalanches.

  • The avalanche occurred around 11:30 a.m. Pacific time on Tuesday, February 18, 2026.
  • The Sierra Avalanche Center's avalanche warning, issued on Tuesday, remained in effect on Wednesday morning.

The players

Nevada County Sheriff's Office

The local law enforcement agency coordinating the search and rescue efforts.

Blackbird Mountain Guides

The company that organized the ski tour where the avalanche occurred.

Gavin Newsom

The Governor of California, who was briefed on the avalanche and coordinating state-level support for the search and rescue efforts.

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What’s next

Authorities have warned that the search for the remaining skiers will be a slow process due to the dangerous conditions, including the risk of further avalanches. The Nevada County Sheriff's Office and state authorities will continue coordinating the search and rescue efforts.

The takeaway

This incident serves as a sobering reminder of the inherent risks and dangers faced by backcountry skiers, even in popular and well-known mountain regions like the Sierra Nevada. It underscores the importance of avalanche safety, proper equipment, and effective rescue coordination in these remote, snowy environments.