Rescue underway for missing skiers after reported avalanche in Sierra Nevada, sheriff’s office says

NEVADA CITY, Calif. (KGO) — A rescue is underway on Tuesday in the Sierra Nevada after a reported avalanche in the Castle Peak area, according to the Nevada County Sheriff’s Office in a Facebook post.

It was reported around 11:30 a.m.

The sheriff’s office said backcountry skiers are involved in the incident, “with several members of the party missing at this time.”

The Nevada County Sheriff’s Office along with the Nevada County Sheriff’s Search & Rescue team and allied agencies, are responding to the incident.

According to ABC News, the Sierra Avalanche Center, which forecasts avalanche danger in the area, has the danger rating at “HIGH” on Tuesday.

“Today’s storm is falling on a horrifyingly poor quality snow pack that will fail and slide easily with weight on top of it,” the press release said.

“Travel in, near, or below avalanche terrain is not recommended today. A widespread natural avalanchecycle is expected over the next 24 hours. Large avalanches may run through treed areas. If attempting travel today in non-avalanche terrain, be certain that there are no steeper slopes connected to the terrain you are traveling, either above or to the side.”

In January, a snowmobiler was killed in an avalanche in the area, near Johnson Peak and Castle Peak in Truckee.

The snowmobiler was initially reported missing, but then was found under the snow several minutes later, the Nevada County Sheriff’s Office said in a statement.

Fellow recreationists found him but he didn’t survive despite lifesaving efforts, according to the statement.

This story is developing. Check back for updates.