Avalanche kills one, injures three at a ski resort in California

Thursday, January 11, 2024

The Placer County—in the U.S. state of California—Sheriff’s Office told the media that an avalanche tore through a section of expert trails at a California ski resort close to Lake Tahoe on Wednesday, leaving one person dead and three others injured.

The avalanche happened at approximately nine thirty in the morning on steep slopes beneath Palisades Tahoe’s KT-22 lift, which provides “black diamond” runs for expert skiers and snowboarders.

Thirty minutes after Palisades Tahoe opened, it was forced to close due to an avalanche, and search teams searched the area to determine whether anyone was hurt or trapped.

Located in the stunning Sierra Nevada mountains of California, Palisades Tahoe Resort is a top choice for skiers looking for exhilarating experiences on the slopes. Previously recognized as Squaw Valley Alpine Meadows, the resort possesses an extensive past and a stellar reputation for world-class snowboarding and skiing.

From easy slopes for novices to strenuous runs for seasoned pros, Palisades Tahoe provides a wide variety of terrain that is appropriate for all ability levels. The resort offers plenty of chances for excitement and exploration, with over 6,000 skiable acres divided between two separate mountains.

The “Tram Face,” a fabled steep slope that has become a milestone for experienced skiers and snowboarders, is one of the resort’s most recognizable features. The resort’s excellent winter conditions, which are ensured by its high elevation and steady snowfall, draw visitors from all over the world.

A spokesperson for the Placer County sheriff, Sgt. David Smith, stated hours later that one individual—a male—had passed away. Two others were treated for generic injuries and released, while one individual sustained damage to their lower leg. 

Authorities said that the victim was a visitor from out of town who was killed at the resort.

In addition to its exceptional skiing and snowboarding facilities, Palisades Tahoe offers a host of amenities and activities to enhance the guest experience. The resort boasts a vibrant village area with shops, restaurants, and entertainment options, creating a lively atmosphere both on and off the slopes.

According to Palisades Tahoe Resort, the avalanche was discovered Wednesday around 9:30 a.m. local time. The KT-22 lift, which opened for business at 9 a.m. on Wednesday, was located near the slide.

The avalanche occurred at the same time as this week’s strong storm, which covered the Sierra Nevada mountains with a lot of snow. While the ground is still covered in snow, the Tahoe area will most likely receive at least one more foot of snow between Wednesday afternoon and Thursday morning.

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