Deadliest Avalanche in California History Leaves Nine Skiers Dead Near Lake Tahoe as Crews Wait Out Dangerous Storm

Search and recovery teams are facing another day of dangerous conditions as they work to recover the bodies of skiers killed in a massive avalanche near Lake Tahoe. Authorities say the slide is the deadliest avalanche in California’s recorded history, and ongoing whiteout conditions and new snowfall are making it too risky for crews to return to the remote backcountry site.

Officials say a guided group of 15 skiers was heading back to the trailhead Tuesday when the avalanche struck in the Castle Peak area near Donner Summit. Six people survived, some with injuries. Eight were found dead on the mountainside, and one person remains missing and is presumed dead.

The trip was organized by Blackbird Mountain Guides. The company says four guides were on the outing and were trained or certified through the American Mountain Guides Association, with avalanche education certifications through the American Institute for Avalanche Research and Education. Blackbird Mountain Guides has suspended field operations through at least February 22 as investigations continue and the company supports families and staff.

Rescue operations have been complicated by the area’s isolation and extreme weather. There is no road access to the scene, so crews used a snowcat to get within about two miles, then skied the remaining distance. Survivors were able to signal for help through emergency beacons and iPhone SOS, and one guide reportedly texted rescuers while teams navigated harsh conditions.

A new round of heavy snow is expected to add up to several feet of accumulation, with winds reducing visibility and increasing the risk of additional avalanches. Authorities say they are waiting for a safe window in the weather before attempting recovery, emphasizing that conditions must allow responders to reach the site without putting more lives at risk.

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