The group includes four ski guides and 12 skiers U.S. authorities continue search and rescue efforts under difficult conditions

Authorities in the U.S. state of California reported that 10 skiers remain missing, while six others are trapped following a massive avalanche near Lake Tahoe, amid heavy snowfall in the Sierra Nevada mountains on Tuesday.

The Nevada County Sheriff’s Office stated on Facebook that the avalanche swept through the Castle Peak area in Truckee, California, about 10 miles north of Lake Tahoe, at 11:30 a.m. Pacific Time, carrying away a group of 16 skiers.

The statement clarified that the group included four ski guides and 12 skiers, noting that rescue teams managed to save at least six individuals, who remained at the avalanche site awaiting assistance, while the others are still missing.

U.S. authorities continue search and rescue efforts under difficult conditions due to the heavy snowfall, warning of the risk of repeated avalanches in the area during the current winter season.

Emergency teams are advising visitors and skiers about potential hazards in mountainous areas, stressing the importance of following safety instructions and avoiding known avalanche-prone zones.