On February 17, a 911 call changed everything for a group of backcountry skiers in Nevada County, California. An avalanche hit Castle Peak, a towering mountain near Donner Summit. The skiers, who had spent three days exploring the area, were caught in a fierce winter storm. Six out of twelve had survived, but the fate of the others was uncertain.
Rescue teams faced challenging conditions, with the Central Sierra Snow Lab reporting heavy snowfall that day. With 28 inches already fallen and more expected, the risk of further avalanches loomed large.
Initially, 16 people were thought to be trapped: 12 skiers and four guides from Blackbird Mountain Guides. However, upon arrival, it turned out one skier had canceled at the last minute. This incident became one of the deadliest avalanche disasters in U.S. history.
As rescue teams mobilized, they used specially designed vehicles to navigate harsh terrain. By late afternoon, they found the six survivors who had built a makeshift shelter from tarps. Tragically, they had also uncovered the bodies of three of their lost friends. First responders later recovered five more bodies, with one person still missing.
In the following days, family and friends of the victims shared their memories. Most of the deceased were experienced skiers from the Bay Area, many being mothers and close friends. They were known for cherishing their time in the mountains, enjoying the thrill of the slopes together.
Max Perrey, the mayor of Mill Valley, described the incident as a significant loss for the community. Local schools prepared to support students affected by the tragedy, as some victims were mothers of children in the district.
The avalanche’s causes remain under investigation. Experts noted that avalanches in the Sierra are not uncommon, but the intensity of this event was alarming. David Reichel, director of the Sierra Avalanche Center, mentioned that major storms often trigger avalanches in the area. Since September 2025, at least 50 avalanches were reported near Lake Tahoe, with previous incidents causing fatalities.
Avalanche risks can stem from various factors, including poor snow conditions and rapid weather changes. Climate scientist Daniel Swain indicated that shifts in the climate have led to more unpredictable weather events, complicating safety on the mountains. This snow season had started with a concerning lack of snow, creating precarious conditions that were then rapidly compounded by heavy snowfall.
The avalanche at Castle Peak is now recognized as the fourth deadliest in U.S. history. As communities begin to heal from the devastation, families are focusing on honoring their loved ones’ lives and supporting each other through the process of grief.
For further insights on avalanche safety, the Sierra Avalanche Center offers resources and forecasts. You can explore their detailed reports here.
