Rescue teams pushed through heavy snow and high winds near Lake Tahoe this week to reach six backcountry skiers who survived an avalanche but were stranded in remote mountain terrain. Authorities say nine other members of the group remain missing.

The Nevada County Sheriff’s Office confirmed Tuesday night that 15 skiers, not 16 as initially believed, were part of the guided expedition. Two of the six rescued individuals were transported to a hospital for treatment, according to sheriff’s office spokesperson Ashley Quadros.

Emergency crews were dispatched to the Frog Lake area near Castle Peak, northwest of Lake Tahoe, after a 911 call reported that multiple people had been buried in an avalanche. The incident occurred as a powerful winter storm moved across California, creating hazardous travel and rescue conditions.

Officials said it took several hours for teams to navigate rugged, snow-covered terrain to reach the stranded skiers. Rescuers proceeded cautiously due to the risk of additional slides. Once brought to safety, the survivors were evaluated by the Truckee Fire Department.

The group was on the final day of a three-day backcountry ski tour that involved traveling several miles through mountainous terrain while carrying food and supplies. The trip was led by Blackbird Mountain Guides, which said it is coordinating with authorities on the ongoing search effort.

The Sierra Avalanche Center had issued an avalanche warning for the Central Sierra Nevada region, including the Greater Lake Tahoe area, as rapidly accumulating snow and gale-force winds created unstable conditions. Forecasters warned that large avalanches were likely through Wednesday.

The storm dropped significant snowfall across the region, with Soda Springs reporting roughly 30 inches in a 24-hour period. Dangerous conditions also led to temporary closures along Interstate 80 near Donner Summit and forced several ski resorts to shut down operations.

Castle Peak, a popular backcountry skiing destination north of Donner Summit, sits at more than 9,000 feet and is known for challenging winter conditions. Authorities say avalanche risks remain high in the backcountry, where travel near steep terrain is strongly discouraged during major storm events.

Officials plan to provide additional updates at a news conference Wednesday morning as search operations continue.