9 California skiers still missing after avalanche; 6 rescued
Emergency beacons helped rescuers locate six survivors near Lake Tahoe as powerful winter storm slams California
By Stephen Sorace Fox News
Published February 18, 2026 8:08am EST
Six backcountry skiers survived an avalanche during a fierce snowstorm near Lake Tahoe in Northern California, but nine others from their group remain missing in treacherous mountain conditions.
Two of the rescued skiers were hospitalized for treatment, according to the Nevada County Sheriff’s Office. Officials clarified Tuesday night that the tour group consisted of 15 skiers, not 16 as initially reported.
The avalanche struck Tuesday near Frog Lake in the Castle Peak area, northwest of Lake Tahoe, prompting a 911 call reporting multiple people buried. Rescue teams navigated rugged terrain and treacherous conditions for several hours before reaching the survivors.
The skiers were on the final day of a three-day backcountry tour organized by Blackbird Mountain Guides, officials told The Associated Press. The expedition required traversing up to four miles of mountainous terrain while carrying food and supplies and staying overnight in remote huts.
Authorities said emergency beacons carried by the group helped pinpoint their location. Rescuers approached cautiously amid the risk of additional avalanches.
The incident comes as a powerful winter storm slams California, dumping heavy snow and bringing high winds across the Sierra Nevada. Avalanche warnings were issued across the region, with forecasters warning of large slides through Wednesday.
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