Eight skiers lost their lives, and one remains unaccounted for after a devastating avalanche struck a popular winter destination north of Lake Tahoe on February 17, 2026. This tragic event marks the deadliest avalanche in the U.S. in 45 years.
The avalanche hit around 11:30 a.m. after a period of unusual dry weather. While six other skiers were rescued, the deaths serve as a grim reminder of the dangers that avalanches pose, particularly when conditions change suddenly.
Avalanches are a typical winter risk in the western U.S., but the recent climate patterns raise alarms. Studies show that climate change alters snowpacks, making them less stable. Warmer temperatures and unpredictable precipitation can turn once stable areas into hazardous zones. Experts warn that as the climate continues to change, more avalanches could occur, complicating rescue efforts.
Understanding Dry Slab Avalanches
Dry slab avalanches are particularly deadly and cause most avalanche fatalities in North America. They occur when a dense layer of snow breaks free and slides over weaker layers below.
According to Protect Our Winters, three key elements are required for a dry slab avalanche: suitable terrain, unstable snow layers, and a trigger—this could be natural factors like wind or a skier’s movement. A study in Frontiers in Physiology highlights that if a person is buried in such an avalanche, the survival rate drops significantly after around 35 minutes. Most commonly, victims suffocate as snow blocks their airways.
Impact of Snow Droughts
Mountain snowpacks form through a layering process influenced by weather conditions. Each storm adds to the mix, often burying weaker layers beneath stronger ones. However, when snow remains dry for extended periods, it creates dangerous conditions.
Prolonged dry spells—referred to as snow droughts—lead to the formation of weak layers within the snowpack. When heavy snow finally falls, the extra weight can trigger catastrophic avalanches. The Sierra Avalanche Center has raised warnings that recent dry spells have heightened the risk in the Sierra Nevada Mountains. Weak layers of snow can still pose a significant danger, even beneath several feet of fresh snowfall.
Linking Climate Change to Avalanches
Research indicates that climate change is linked to thinner snowpacks and more erratic weather. Lower elevations may see less snow, but what falls is often wetter and heavier. This shift could lead to more dangerous types of avalanches that are harder to survive and rescue victims from.
Interestingly, while overall avalanche hazard may decrease in some areas due to climate factors, the popularity of winter recreation continues to grow. This trend may lead to an increase in human-triggered avalanches, even if natural occurrences become less frequent.
As the climate continues to evolve, the risks associated with winter sports remain a concern for both skiers and researchers alike. Keeping informed and taking precautions can help individuals enjoy winter activities safely amid changing conditions.
