Eight Skiers Found Dead After California Avalanche
Tragic Avalanche Incident in Lake Tahoe
In a heartbreaking incident in California’s Lake Tahoe region, rescue teams have confirmed that eight skiers, who went missing after a devastating avalanche on Tuesday, have been found deceased. The search for the ninth and final missing skier is ongoing, though officials believe that person is also presumed dead, according to Nevada County Sheriff Shannan Moon at a press conference on Wednesday.
Key Details on the Avalanche
– Date and Time: The avalanche struck on Tuesday around 11:30 AM local time (19:30 GMT).
– Affected Area: Castle Peak, an area known for its challenging backcountry conditions.
– Avalanche Size: Described as football-field sized and rated D2.5 on the Sierra Avalanche Center’s scale, indicating a length exceeding half a mile and a snow deposit of about 6.5 feet.
– Snowfall Conditions: Since the avalanche, an additional 3 feet (90 cm) of snow has fallen in the region, complicating rescue efforts. Tahoe National Forest supervisor Chris Feutrier emphasized, The hazard remains high.
Impact on the Community
Tragically, one of the deceased was the spouse of a member involved in the search-and-rescue teams, making this situation particularly challenging on an emotional level. Placer County Sheriff Wayne Woo expressed condolences to the families affected, stating, This is a very trying time.
Sugar Bowl Academy, a local ski school, announced that multiple community members were among those who lost their lives. Executive director Stephen McMahon shared, We are an incredibly close and connected community. This tragedy has affected each and every one of us.
Rescue Operations Under Challenging Conditions
The rescue operation involved a collaboration of two teams and approximately 50 crew members navigating through extreme weather conditions with specialized equipment. On Tuesday evening, search teams reached an area about two miles (3.2 km) from where six survivors were taking shelter in makeshift tents.
Notably, two of the survivors had serious injuries that prevented them from walking. These individuals were successfully evacuated to a hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. Among the survivors were one guide and five clients from the Blackbird Mountain guided tour, part of a larger skiing group consisting of 11 recreational skiers and four guides.
Ongoing Efforts and Warnings
California Governor Gavin Newsom’s office reported that state authorities are coordinating an extensive search-and-rescue operation with local emergency teams. However, the weather remains perilous, with officials urging the public to avoid the backcountry during heightened risk conditions. Sheriff Woo remarked, Please allow us to focus all of our resources on continuing to recover these bodies for the family and bring them home.
Conclusion
As the search continues for the remaining missing skier, the community is mourning the tragic loss of life caused by this avalanche in California. The dangers of backcountry skiing have been starkly illustrated, reminding all to exercise caution in the face of unpredictable weather and avalanche conditions. Authorities have yet to release the names of the deceased, but families have been notified, and support for those affected remains a top priority.