Science Insight: Deadly Avalanches Strike the Italian Alps Amid High Winds  - Explained

We explore the scientific background, research findings, and environmental impact of Science Insight: Avalanche Strikes Sierra Nevada: Skiers Missing Near Lake Tahoe – Explained

In a tragic turn of events, an avalanche struck near Lake Tahoe in the Sierra Nevada mountains, trapping a group of skiers. The disaster unfolded on Tuesday at Castle Peak, about 10 miles north of Lake Tahoe, sweeping away 16 individuals.

The group, comprising four ski guides and 12 clients, fell victim to the unexpected natural catastrophe despite a prior warning from the Sierra Avalanche Center, which had cautioned about a ‘high avalanche danger’ in the area earlier in the day.

Six of the skiers were found stranded at the site, while ten remain missing. Rescue operations have been launched, drawing emergency teams from Boreal Mountain Ski Resort and Tahoe Donner’s Alder Creek Adventure Center. Rescue efforts face challenges due to the persistent hazardous weather in the Sierra backcountry.