As the AP agency reminds, the tragedy occurred last Tuesday in the area of Castle Peak, near Lake Tahoe. A group of fifteen high-mountain skiers, including experienced guides, was in the final phase of a three-day expedition. Due to the approaching snowstorm, the participants decided to shorten the route and return, but just then an avalanche with a width equivalent to the length of a football field occurred. Six people managed to call for help. The rescuers found the first three fatalities near the scene of the incident.
How many bodies were recovered from the avalanche?
In what area did the tragedy take place?
How long did the rescue operation take?
Who supported the rescuers during the operation?
Rescuers reached the disaster area only after six hours, operating in extremely dangerous conditions, using two independent approach routes. Due to zero visibility and unstable snow cover, immediate transport of the bodies was initially impossible. Over the next few days, the families of the deceased waited for the weather to improve, while rescuers monitored the weather situation for the safety of the teams.
The breakthrough in action occurred on Friday. A controlled avalanche descent was carried out using helicopters, which secured the area and enabled rescuers to safely enter the search zone. Five bodies were recovered that day. On Saturday morning, despite gusty winds, helicopters transported the last four victims, lowering them on ropes to specialized snow vehicles waiting in a safe zone.
The sheriff released a statement
Nevada County Sheriff Shannon Moon emphasized the huge commitment of the services and over 40 volunteers who supported the operation at its peak. — We are lucky that in our mountain community we are so close-knit and able to stand together in the face of tragedy. There are no words to express our sympathy to the families affected by this disaster, she said.
The victims' relatives said in a short statement that they were “devastated” and asked for their privacy to be respected. They noted that they still had many questions about the circumstances of the accident that remained unanswered.
The authorities announced that the Castle Peak area will remain completely closed to tourist and sports traffic until mid-March. During this time, experts will conduct a detailed investigation and assess the stability of the slopes to minimize the risk of danger to people in the mountains.
