Deadly avalanche buries skiers as winter storm slams Northern California

A powerful winter storm has struck Northern California, triggering an avalanche near Castle Peak in the Sierra Nevada. Emergency crews rushed to the scene after a 911 call reported skiers buried under snow. The area, known for backcountry skiing, faces extreme weather and high avalanche risks.

The Nevada County Sheriff's Office received the distress call at around 11:30 a.m. Multiple skiers were feared missing after the news near the 9,110-foot Castle Peak. Search and rescue teams, including the sheriff's department and the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection, immediately responded.

The storm has dumped heavy snow across the region, with Soda Springs recording at least 30 inches in the last 24 hours. Forecasters warn that parts of the western Sierra Nevada could see up to 8 feet of snow before the system moves on late Wednesday. Many ski resorts around Lake Tahoe have closed fully or partially due to the hazardous conditions.

Backcountry areas in the Central Sierra Nevada, including the Greater Lake Tahoe region, remain under high avalanche warnings. Large slides are expected, increasing risks for skiers and rescue teams alike.

The search for missing skiers continues amid severe weather. Emergency services are coordinating efforts in difficult conditions, with heavy snow and high winds complicating operations. The storm's impact has also disrupted travel and outdoor activities across the region.