California hit by heavy snow as avalanche leaves skiers missing

Nine backcountry skiers are missing following an avalanche in California's Lake Tahoe region on Tuesday, authorities say. Six others have so far been rescued.

The avalanche was reported about 11:30 PST (19:30 GMT) in the Castle Peak area near the town of Truckee, according to officials. Weather conditions remain dangerous, with a high chance of further avalanches.

The avalanche and severe weather also left drivers stranded on roads, with the storm affecting several highways, including Interstate 80 and Highway 50.