The Bay Tahoe Avalanche Is the Deadliest in Modern California History
Feb 25, 2026
Sarah Wright, an outdoors reporter for KQED who covers Sierra recreation and safety, walks through the deadly Tahoe avalanche and its impact on local communities. She discusses where it happened, avalanche warnings in place that day, how backcountry skiing differs from resort skiing, reactions in the Tahoe and Bay Area communities, and ongoing investigations and safety training debates.
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Guided Backcountry Trip Turned Deadly
- The trip was a guided three-day backcountry skiing outing to the Frog Lake Huts near Donner Summit.
- Sarah Wright said the group totaled 15 people: nine killed, six survivors, including three guides and six client women mostly in their 40s and 50s from the Bay Area.
Avalanche Risk Was Labeled High That Morning
- The Sierra Avalanche Center had issued a high avalanche risk advisory the morning of the incident.
- Sarah Wright noted forecasters expected a big storm and warnings were in place before the avalanche at Castle Peak.
Backcountry Skiing Is Self-Reliant Wilderness Travel
- Backcountry skiing differs from resort skiing because there's no ski patrol or managed trails; participants are responsible for their own safety.
- Sarah Wright explained the appeal: access to remote alpine terrain and a rewarding, empowering wilderness experience.