Eight Skiers Killed In Deadly California Avalanche, Search Continues

U.S. media reported that eight skiers died after a devastating avalanche swept through a backcountry area in California earlier this week.

According to The Washington Post, the avalanche struck around 11:30 a.m. local time on Tuesday, February 17, catching a group of 15 off-trail skiers.

The group had been returning from a three-day tour when the snow slide hit. Six people, including one guide, survived and sought shelter.

Authorities in Nevada County confirmed that eight of the nine initially missing skiers were found dead, while search efforts continue for one person

Officials described conditions as severe, with strong winds, extreme cold, and continued avalanche risks complicating rescue efforts and forcing operations into recovery mode.

The tragedy is considered the deadliest recorded avalanche in the United States in more than four decades, underscoring growing concerns over backcountry safety.

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