Rescue crews on skis and snowcats battled blizzard conditions to reach six backcountry skiers trapped but alive since February 17, after a Northern California avalanche that left 9 others missing amid ongoing slide danger.
Authorities sent rescue teams to Frog Lake in the Castle Peak area, northwest of Lake Tahoe, following a 911 call at about 11:30 am local time, reporting an avalanche that buried multiple people. California is currently dealing with severe winter storms.
Ashley Quadros, a spokesperson for the Nevada County Sheriff’s Office, said the six trapped skiers have been located and were told to shelter in place “as best they can” until rescuers reach them.
Avalanches are often overshadowed by other natural disasters such as tornadoes, earthquakes, or volcanic eruptions. However, powerful avalanches can kill thousands and destroy entire cities. Find out how devastating an avalanche can be by clicking through this gallery on the worst avalanches in history.