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Story summary
- A Sierra Avalanche Center report details the February 17 avalanche near Castle Peak, California that killed nine backcountry skiers.
- The group of 15 skiers deviated from safety practices by traveling closely together in avalanche-prone terrain during avalanche risk.
- Investigators have not determined whether the avalanche was triggered naturally or by the group.
- Survivors included two delayed by equipment issues who helped rescue others, as the report urges better backcountry decision-making.
