health
March 4, 2026
California's Deadliest Avalanche Turned on One Choice
Why did a group of 15 skiers take a risky route on a dangerous day?
TL;DR
- Nine skiers were killed in the deadliest avalanche in California's modern history near the Frog Lake Backcountry Huts.
- The Sierra Avalanche Center had issued 'high' danger warnings on the day of the avalanche, advising against travel in avalanche terrain.
- The group was led by four guides from Blackbird Mountain Guides, and investigations are focusing on their route selection.
- Unusual snow conditions, including a warm spell followed by heavy snowfall, created unstable layers prone to avalanching.
- Survivors and other guides question why the group chose a route that traversed avalanche terrain.
- Rescue efforts were hampered by severe weather conditions, and a novel water-dumping technique was used to help stabilize the slope for recovery.
- The incident has prompted reflection within the close-knit skiing community about the risks inherent in backcountry travel and the importance of decision-making.
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