Rescue teams scramble to locate nine missing backcountry skiers after avalanche strikes Castle Peak in California’s Sierra Nevada

A tense search is underway in the Sierra Nevada after an avalanche struck a group of 15 backcountry skiers near Castle Peak, about 40 miles from Mt. Rose.

The incident occurred late Tuesday morning, when a heavy storm dumped snow and created unstable conditions on the mountain.

Six skiers managed to survive by creating a makeshift tarp shelter, but nine others remain missing.

The Nevada County Sheriff’s Office reported that the rescued skiers were taken to safety with varying injuries, and two required hospital treatment.

Survivors Huddle in Makeshift Shelter

According to Nevada County Sheriff’s Captain Russell Green, the six rescued skiers improvised a shelter with a tarp while trapped by the snow.

“They are doing the best they can,” Green said.

“They have taken refuge in an area, made a makeshift shelter, and are doing everything possible to survive while awaiting rescue.”

The swift actions of the survivors likely saved their lives, but the ongoing snowstorm has made the rescue of the remaining nine skiers extremely challenging.

Governor Gavin Newsom Vows Full Search Effort

California Governor Gavin Newsom confirmed that state authorities are coordinating a full-scale search and rescue operation.

“The state is coordinating an all-hands search and rescue effort with local partners and deploying resources to support the active response,” his office wrote on X, emphasizing the urgency of the mission.

Mountain rescue teams are facing dangerous conditions, with deep snow, gusting winds, and ongoing storms hampering visibility and access.

Storm Warnings Compound Rescue Efforts

The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Storm Warning for much of the northern and central Sierra Nevada.

Forecasts indicate heavy snowfall and wind gusts up to 55 mph, making navigation difficult for both rescuers and anyone attempting travel in the area.

California Highway Patrol footage released Tuesday highlighted the treacherous whiteout conditions at Castle Peak. “This isn’t inconvenient weather.

This is unsafe travel. If you don’t absolutely need to be out, don’t be,” the CHP warned on X.

Tour Company Raised Avalanche Concerns Days Before

Blackbird Mountain Guides, the company leading the group, had warned of dangerous snow conditions just two days before the avalanche.

A guide stationed at Mt. Rose, Tahoe’s highest elevation, posted on the company’s Facebook page about “atypical layering” in the snowpack caused by an extended dry season.

The post specifically cautioned that faceted snow layers could trigger abnormal avalanche behavior during large storms and urged snow sports enthusiasts to exercise “extra caution.”

Castle Peak Avalanche Leaves Nine Missing

Despite the warnings, the group of 15 skiers proceeded with their backcountry excursion.

Heavy snowfall and an avalanche trapped them on Castle Peak, which rises to 9,110 feet north of Donner Summit.

Authorities say conditions remain extremely hazardous, slowing rescue operations for the nine still missing.

What’s Next?

Rescue teams will continue combing the mountain as soon as conditions allow, prioritizing safety for both survivors and search personnel.

Additional resources, including helicopters and snow vehicles, are on standby, but the ongoing storm complicates aerial operations.

Authorities are also reviewing weather data, snowpack reports, and the decisions leading up to the excursion to prevent similar tragedies.

Public advisories remain in effect, urging anyone in the Sierra Nevada to avoid unnecessary travel.

Summary

A California avalanche near Castle Peak has trapped 15 backcountry skiers, leaving nine missing and six rescued after creating a makeshift shelter.

Heavy snow, strong winds, and ongoing storms are complicating search and rescue efforts.

Blackbird Mountain Guides had warned of unstable snow layers days earlier, highlighting the risks of backcountry skiing during winter storms.

Governor Gavin Newsom has pledged full state support for recovery efforts, while authorities continue to monitor conditions and conduct rescue operations.