A tragic avalanche in the Sierra Nevada mountains of California has claimed the lives of eight back-country skiers, with one still missing. This devastating incident marks the deadliest avalanche in the US in over four decades. The group was on a three-day trek when the avalanche struck, burying 15 skiers. Six were found alive, and two were rescued and taken to a hospital for treatment. The area near Donner Summit, known for its heavy snowfall, is one of the snowiest places in the Western Hemisphere. The Sierra Avalanche Center issued a warning, advising against travel due to the high risk of avalanches and the unstable snow pack. The incident was reported by Blackbird Mountain Guides, who were leading the expedition, and the skiers' emergency beacons. The Nevada County Sheriff's Office confirmed that 15 skiers were on the trip, not 16 as initially believed.
