Numerous individuals have been reported missing in the ski area of Alpine Meadows, California, after an avalanche struck the Lake Tahoe region.
The avalanche was first reported at 10:16 a.m. local time on the Subway ski run.
The Placer County Sheriff's Office confirmed that one individual has died and another was found with severe lower-body injuries and transported to an area hospital following the event. Emergency responders are continuing to search for additional victims.
PCSO deputies & our Tahoe Nordic Search & Rescue (TNSAR) team has responded to #AlpineMeadows Ski Resort for avalanche near the Subway ski run. One fatality and one serious injury confirmed. #Avalance #cawx pic.twitter.com/4CwsqjjZOW
— Placer Sheriff (@PlacerSheriff) January 17, 2020
Up to 25 inches of snow were dumped in the Squaw Valley of Alpine Meadows between Thursday and Friday morning, according to the National Weather Service. The Sierra Avalanche Center announced that there was "considerable avalanche danger" for all elevations in the area.
Here are a few snowfall totals. Reply to us with your snowy photos (location, elevation, & measurement). Sierra winds will continue through tonight before decreasing on Saturday. Quieter weather on tap for the holiday weekend! https://t.co/gCXMvW5fB2 pic.twitter.com/WwHjoWrIaN
— NWS Reno (@NWSReno) January 17, 2020
Alpine Meadows is the location of the deadliest avalanche in US ski history. The March 31, 1982, event claimed the lives of seven individuals, reported the Sacramento Bee.
