Six Women, Including Sisters, Among Victims in California's Deadliest Avalanche
In a heartbreaking incident, six women, including two sisters, were among the victims of a devastating avalanche in Sierra Nevada, California, on February 17, 2026. The tragedy marks the deadliest avalanche in the state's history, with eight people confirmed dead and one still missing as rescue efforts face challenges due to severe weather conditions.
Details of the Victims and the Incident
The victims were identified as Carrie Atkin, Danielle Keatley, Kate Morse, Kate Vitt, and sisters Caroline Sekar and Liz Clabaugh. They were part of a close-knit group of mothers who were experienced backcountry skiers, regularly traveling together for outdoor adventures. The families released a joint statement expressing their devastation, stating, "We are devastated beyond words. Our focus right now is supporting our children through this incredible tragedy and honouring the lives of these extraordinary women." All six were described as mothers, wives, and friends connected by their love for the outdoors.
The avalanche occurred near Castle Peak, north of the Boreal Mountain Ski Resort, as the group of 15 skiers was returning from a three-day guided backcountry trip. They were overcome by eight feet of snow and winds reaching 145 km/h. Nevada County Undersheriff Sam Brown reported that survivors immediately went into frantic mode, trying to find and unbury their friends, but three individuals did not survive. "Uncovering people who are deceased, that they know and probably cared about, is just horrible," Brown added.
Rescue Efforts and Survivors
Two other friends from the group survived and were rescued, along with four others, including a guide. However, the names of the other victims have not yet been released. Crews hope to resume recovery efforts on Friday, after days of dangerous weather have hampered safe access to the area near Lake Tahoe. Authorities are investigating why the group continued their trip despite an avalanche watch issued for the region two days prior to the incident.
The women were reportedly well-trained, fully prepared skiers equipped with avalanche safety gear. They lived in various locations, including the Bay Area, Idaho, and the Truckee-Tahoe region. For instance, Caroline Sekar, 45, was a mother of two from San Francisco, while Liz Clabaugh, 52, worked as a graduate nurse residency program coordinator in Boise, Idaho. Kate Vitt, also from San Francisco, had a background in media companies like SiriusXM and Pandora.
Historical Context and Aftermath
This avalanche is not only the deadliest in California's history but also the second deadly slide in the area this year, following a previous incident where a snowmobiler was buried last month. The families emphasized in their statement that the women were passionate and skilled skiers who cherished their time in the mountains. As the community grieves, support is being mobilized for the children and families affected by this profound loss.
