Deadly Avalanche Strikes California Ski Academy Community

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A deadly avalanche in California's Sierra Nevada Mountains on Tuesday has claimed the lives of multiple members of the Sugar Bowl Academy community, a private independent school focused on competitive skiing. The group involved in the avalanche includes mostly mothers who are parents of students at the school, according to authorities and the school's statement. Eight people have been confirmed dead, with one person still missing and presumed dead, in what is being called the deadliest U.S. avalanche in 45 years.

Why it matters

The tragedy has devastated the tight-knit Sugar Bowl Academy community, which is focused on supporting the affected families and students through this difficult time. The incident also highlights the inherent risks and dangers of backcountry skiing, especially for groups with close connections, and raises questions about safety protocols and avalanche preparedness for outdoor enthusiasts.

The details

The group of 15 skiers was on a three-day guided trip when the avalanche struck on Tuesday in the Sierra Nevada Mountains near Truckee, California. Eight people have been confirmed dead, with one person still missing and presumed dead. Of the deceased, seven are women and two are men. Six people survived the avalanche and were rescued by crews after sheltering under a tarp for hours in dangerous conditions.

• The avalanche occurred on Tuesday, February 17, 2026.
• The victims were on a three-day guided ski trip when the tragedy struck.

What’s next

Authorities are still working to recover all of the victims and are not yet sharing personal details of the victims and survivors out of respect for the affected families. The Nevada County Sheriff's Office is leading the investigation into the deadly avalanche.