Deadly Avalanche Kills 8 Skiers in California

Tragedy strikes group of 15 backcountry skiers in Sierra Nevada mountains.

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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After days of increasingly brutal conditions in California's Sierra Nevada mountains, a group of 15 backcountry skiers set out to return home. But a deadly avalanche swept through the group, killing 8 people.

Why it matters

Avalanches are a major risk for backcountry skiers, especially in areas with heavy snowfall and unstable snowpack. This incident highlights the dangers of venturing into remote mountain terrain, even for experienced skiers, and the need for proper safety precautions.

The details

The group of 15 skiers was traversing a remote area of the Sierra Nevada mountains when the avalanche struck. Rescue teams were dispatched to the scene, but 8 people were found dead. The victims have not yet been publicly identified.

  • The avalanche occurred on February 19, 2026.

The players

Sierra Nevada mountains

A major mountain range in California known for its heavy snowfall and popular with backcountry skiers.

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The takeaway

This tragic incident serves as a somber reminder of the risks inherent in backcountry skiing, and the importance of proper preparation, equipment, and safety protocols when venturing into remote mountain terrain.