Deadly California Avalanche Kills Eight Skiers

Eight backcountry skiers died and one remains missing after a deadly avalanche near United States — Lake Tahoe, United States — California, making it the deadliest U.S. avalanche in nearly half a century. The group, led by Blackbird Mountain Guides, was on a three-day trek in the Sierra Nevada when the avalanche struck. Six other skiers from the group were rescued. The United States — Nevada County, California Sheriff's Office has shifted the mission from rescue to recovery due to treacherous conditions and the time elapsed. The Sierra Avalanche Center had issued warnings about high avalanche risk in the area due to heavy snowfall and gale-force winds. The Truckee Donner Land Trust, which owns the huts where the group stayed, emphasizes the need for backcountry skills and safety equipment for the area.