Crews recover bodies of 9 backcountry skiers days after California avalanche

A deadly avalanche in California, the deadliest in the U.S. in almost 45 years, highlights the inherent risks of backcountry activities. The article focuses on the recovery efforts of the skiers killed in the avalanche. Heavy snowstorms in Placer County, California, have caused significant travel disruptions, stranding motorists on Interstate 80 near Camp Spaulding and Soda Springs on February 18th and 19th, 2026. The California Highway Patrol assisted stranded motorists during the storm. Experts emphasize the importance of safety protocols for rescuers during the recovery process. The recovery is dragging out because of the prime rule for rescuers.

An avalanche in California's Sierra Nevada mountains has killed eight people and left one missing as of Wednesday, February 18, 2026. The avalanche, which occurred near Lake Tahoe, buried 15 skiers, with six being rescued. Local authorities, led by Nevada County Sheriff Shannon Moon, are continuing the search, but have shifted from rescue to recovery efforts due to dangerous conditions caused by a powerful winter storm. The California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services is coordinating statewide resources to support the search and rescue efforts near Castle Peak. The Sierra Avalanche Center has warned of continued high avalanche risk due to heavy snowfall. This is the deadliest avalanche in the area in over 40 years.

A search is underway for nine backcountry skiers missing after an avalanche on Castle Peak in the Tahoe area of California on Tuesday. Fifteen people were caught in the avalanche during a major snowstorm. Rescue teams have saved six skiers, two of whom were hospitalized with injuries. The Nevada County Sheriff’s Office reported that extreme weather conditions hampered rescue efforts, delaying access to the skiers and their transport to safety. Authorities initially reported 16 people were involved, but later revised the number to 15.

An avalanche in the Castle Peak area near Truckee, California, has left ten backcountry skiers missing and six others stranded. The incident occurred around 11:30 AM PST on Tuesday, involving a group of 16 consisting of guides and clients. The Nevada County Sheriff's Office has deployed rescue teams, including a SnoCat, from nearby ski resorts and adventure centers. The six survivors have been instructed to shelter in place due to dangerous weather conditions and a high risk of further avalanches. The Sierra Avalanche Center has issued a "high" danger rating, advising against travel in avalanche terrain. Rescue efforts are ongoing with 46 emergency responders, complicated by heavy snowfall and closed highways in the region.