Nine Skiers Missing After Avalanche Strikes California Backcountry Tour Group
A desperate search is underway for nine backcountry skiers who were swept away by an avalanche in California, in what furious snow sports enthusiasts have branded a preventable tragedy. The incident occurred on Castle Peak, near Lake Tahoe, late Tuesday morning, as a huge storm dumped heavy snow across the region.
Rescue Efforts Amid Treacherous Conditions
Fifteen skiers were on the mountain when they were hit by the slide, forcing some to seek safety in a makeshift shelter erected with a tarp. Rescuers battled blizzard conditions to reach them, according to reports from the California Post. By Tuesday evening, six skiers had been rescued with varying injuries, as confirmed by the Nevada County Sheriff's Office. Two of those rescued were taken to a hospital for treatment.
Mountain rescue teams continued their efforts to find the missing nine skiers as snow fell and daylight faded, facing treacherous conditions that hampered progress. Authorities initially stated that 16 people—four guides and 12 clients—were on the trip, but later revised that number down to 15.
Tour Company Responds to the Crisis
Blackbird Mountain Guides, the tour company responsible for the excursion, issued a statement saying it is working in full coordination with authorities to support the rescue mission. The company revealed that the skiers were in the process of returning to the trailhead at the end of a three-day trip when the avalanche struck.
Blackbird Mountain Guides is in direct contact with the emergency contacts of the affected clients and guides and is providing them with regular updates as verified information becomes available, the statement added. The firm emphasized its commitment to assisting in the ongoing rescue operations.
Outrage Among Local Skiers
However, skiers in the area have hit back at the company, claiming that the tour group should never have allowed skiers up the mountain under such dangerous conditions. One local skier, who was at Frog Lake from Thursday to Sunday but left before the storm moved in, expressed his frustration to the Post.
Absolutely a preventable tragedy is all I will say about it, he stated, highlighting concerns over safety protocols and decision-making by the guiding service. This sentiment echoes broader criticisms within the skiing community about risk management during severe weather events.
The avalanche occurred as a massive storm system brought heavy snowfall to the mountains near Lake Tahoe on Tuesday, creating hazardous backcountry conditions. The incident underscores the inherent dangers of winter sports in remote areas, especially during extreme weather.
As rescue teams persevere in their search, the focus remains on locating the missing skiers and ensuring the safety of all involved. This is a developing story, and further updates are expected as more information becomes available.
