New details surface in Castle Peak avalanche as rescue wraps up
The Sierra Avalanche Center released new details about a deadly Castle Peak avalanche on Feb. 17, revealing that 12 of 15 backcountry travelers were caught and some were buried, with new photos and maps shared. Tahoe National Forest had closed the Castle Peak area for recovery operations, a closure later lifted on Feb. 23 after all victims were recovered. Officials urge extreme caution in backcountry recreation and remind visitors to prepare with proper avalanche gear and training, checking conditions before heading out.