Greg Meechek

The skiers have been staying at Backcountry Hut since Sunday and were heading back when the avalanche struck.

The Sierra Avalanche Center had issued a warning for the area just hours earlier.

Lead forecaster Brian Schwartz says dangerous conditions are complicating rescue efforts.

Truckee-based Blackbird Mountain Guides did not confirm it was one of their tour groups, but it said it was responding to the incident and is in contact with affected clients.

For NPR News, I'm Greg Michek.