TRUCKEE, Calif. (AP) — Crews have recovered the bodies of nine backcountry skiers who tragically lost their lives in an avalanche in the Sierra Nevada. This operation faced significant challenges due to heavy snowfall.
Rescue teams managed to locate eight victims and found one more who had been presumed dead since the avalanche struck Castle Peak near Lake Tahoe. According to Sheriff’s Lt. Dennis Hack, the ninth body was discovered nearby but was obscured by the blizzard conditions.
During a press conference, Sheriff Shannon Moon expressed gratitude for the cooperative efforts of various agencies, including the California Highway Patrol, the National Guard, and local volunteers.
“This community is incredibly tight-knit,” Moon noted. “We come together in times of tragedy.”
### The Victims
This tragedy involves three guides from Blackbird Mountain Company: Andrew Alissandratos, 34; Nicole Choo, 42; and Michael Henry, 30. Andrew hailed from Florida and had a passion for various outdoor activities. Michael, originally from Colorado, was known for sharing his love for the mountains with others.
Meanwhile, six other victims were experienced skiers, identified as Carrie Atkin, Liz Clabaugh, Danielle Keatley, Kate Morse, Caroline Sekar, and Kate Vitt, all in their 40s. They came from the San Francisco Bay Area, Idaho, and Lake Tahoe. Their families released a heartfelt statement, expressing their devastation and asking for privacy as they grieve.
### The Avalanche Incident
The avalanche struck on the final day of the skiers’ trip, amidst worsening weather conditions. Initially, the survivors called for help around 11:30 a.m., reporting a terrifying slide that extended about the length of a football field. Rescuers reached them approximately six hours later, managing to recover several bodies even though conditions were perilous.
Efforts to retrieve the bodies were complicated by continued heavy snowfall and avalanche risks. Attempts to secure the area took place during the days following, leading to some successful recoveries.
### Area Closure for Safety
Given the ongoing danger, the Tahoe National Forest is closed to visitors until mid-March. Forest Supervisor Chris Feutrier emphasized the importance of safety but also underscored that the public enjoys using these lands responsibly.
In a somber reflection, experts remind us that avalanches can occur in seemingly safe conditions. According to the Colorado Avalanche Information Center, over 25 people die in avalanches in the U.S. each year. As many outdoor enthusiasts flock to these beautiful areas, understanding weather patterns and avalanche risks is crucial.
This tragic incident not only highlights the dangers of backcountry skiing but also underscores the resilience of communities that come together in difficult times.
Source link
General news, California, Avalanches, Nevada, NV State Wire, U.S. news, Danielle Keatley, Weather, California Golden Bears, Shannon Moon, Kate Morse, Dennis Hack, Kate Vitt, Accidents, Caroline Sekar, Nicole Choo, Chris Feutrier, Zeb Blais, Andrew Alissandratos, Carrie Atkin, Liz Clabaugh, Michael Henry
