One Dead, Three Injured in Palisades Avalanche

A deadly avalanche struck Palisades Tahoe ski resort on Wednesday morning, claiming the life of one skier and injuring three others. 

At approximately 9:30 a.m. Wednesday, an avalanche occurred on the Palisades side of the Palisades Tahoe resort, specifically in the GS gully area, to the skier’s right of the KT-22 chairlift. Palisades Tahoe Ski Patrol responded immediately to the scene and completed a thorough search of the area with the help of over 100 resort personnel, as well as members of the public, using avalanche transceivers, probes, RECCO Rescue System technology, and avalanche rescue dog teams.

The avalanche, triggered by recent snowfall and unstable snowpack conditions, swept through the popular ski area, burying several skiers in its path. Emergency responders, including ski patrol and local authorities, swiftly mobilized to the scene to initiate a comprehensive search and rescue operation.

The avalanche occurred around 9:30 a.m. on steep slopes in the GS Gully area under the KT-22 lift, which serves “black diamond” runs for skilled skiers and snowboarders. Michael Gross, vice president of mountain operations, said ski patrols had been on the slopes checking the avalanche conditions since Sunday.

“They’ve been up there doing control work, evaluating weather conditions, setting up all safety markings, hazard markings, et cetera, to get them prepared for today’s opening,” Gross told reporters at a news conference.

A male skier sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased by Tahoe Forest Hospital. Three other skiers sustained non-life threatening injuries, and were released after initial treatment.

The entire Palisades Tahoe team, including all of the first responders, extend their deepest sympathies to the family and friends of those involved in the incident.

The cause of the avalanche is under investigation. For more information please contact Placer County Sheriff’s Office.

The resort’s mountain operations team is actively working with authorities to investigate the incident and assess the current snow conditions.

This devastating avalanche serves as a stark reminder of the inherent dangers associated with winter sports, even in controlled environments. Skiers and snowboarders are urged to prioritize safety by adhering to avalanche awareness guidelines, checking weather conditions, and avoiding areas with unstable snowpack.