Search Teams Locate All 9 Victims from Deadly California Avalanche Near Tahoe

Saturday, February 21, 2026 at 9:46 PM

Recovery operations have successfully located all nine skiers who perished in Tuesday's devastating avalanche near Lake Tahoe, California. Harsh winter weather conditions had previously hampered search and rescue efforts throughout the week.

Recovery teams have successfully located the remains of all nine individuals who lost their lives in Tuesday’s devastating avalanche near California’s Lake Tahoe region, officials announced Saturday.

The tragic incident, which ranks among the most deadly avalanches in California’s recorded history, prompted an extensive search and recovery operation that faced significant challenges due to severe winter weather conditions.

Harsh storm systems moving through the area throughout the week created dangerous conditions that repeatedly forced rescue teams to suspend their efforts. A U.S. Army Blackhawk helicopter was deployed to assist in the recovery mission, flying into the treacherous Castle Peak area of Northern California.

The avalanche struck the group of skiers on Tuesday, triggering one of the largest search and recovery operations the region has seen. Weather-related delays meant families and loved ones had to wait days for closure as crews worked under extremely hazardous mountain conditions.

Authorities have not yet released the identities of the victims or provided additional details about what may have triggered the deadly snow slide.

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