A powerful winter storm triggered an avalanche in the Sierra Nevada mountain range of United States, leaving nine skiers missing as search and rescue operations continue under hazardous weather conditions.

According to the Nevada County Sheriff's Office, a group of 15 skiers was caught in the avalanche late Tuesday. Six individuals were rescued with varying degrees of injuries, and two of them were transported to hospital for further treatment.

Authorities said rescue efforts are being hampered by heavy snowfall, strong winds and limited visibility. Weather officials warned of “whiteout” conditions across the Sierra Nevada region, significantly reducing visibility and increasing operational risks for emergency teams.

A total of 46 emergency responders are participating in the search operation. Trained rescue ski teams from nearby hotels and ski resorts have also joined efforts to locate the missing individuals.

The Sierra Avalanche Center has classified avalanche danger in mountainous areas as “high,” cautioning that unstable snowpack conditions may persist through Wednesday. Meteorologists forecast up to 2.5 meters of additional snowfall above 1,000 meters in elevation over the next 48 hours, with wind speeds expected to reach 90 kilometers per hour.

Avalanches have claimed six lives in the United States since the start of the winter season, underscoring the ongoing risks posed by extreme weather and unstable snow conditions.

Authorities have not yet released the identities of the missing skiers as search efforts continue. (ILKHA)