SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, CA – A tragic incident unfolded at Lake Tahoe as a 27-foot boat capsized, resulting in the deaths of six people, with two others still missing as search efforts continue. The U.S. Coast Guard confirmed the accident, which occurred around 3 p.m. near D.L. Bliss State Park.
The lake’s conditions were challenging, with smaller boats visibly struggling against the swells. Video footage from the scene shows the larger vessel overturned, underscoring the severity of the situation.
Meteorological factors played a significant role in the tragedy. A sudden weather shift transformed sunny skies into a stormy scene, bringing unexpected June snow and drastically reducing visibility. Winds gusted up to 45 mph, adding to the perilous conditions.
Meteorologist Christine Hanson explained that such cold storms are not unusual for June, as a combination of Pacific moisture and cold Canadian air often affects the region. This particular cold front moved through Lake Tahoe between 1 p.m. and 3 p.m., coinciding with the time of the capsizing.
The storm’s impact was immediate, with temperatures plummeting to below freezing in areas like Truckee and South Lake Tahoe. Although the clouds have since cleared, the cold air remains, exacerbating the challenges for rescue teams.
Authorities are urging caution for anyone near the lake, given the unpredictable weather patterns and ongoing search operations. The Coast Guard and local agencies are working tirelessly to locate the missing individuals.