In Massachusetts, a state of emergency has been declared due to the severe storm, and residents have been advised to avoid unnecessary travel.

The winter storm has already caused travel disruptions from Washington to New England, with airlines canceling thousands of flights and officials advising people not to go out.

According to reports, the disaster struck near Castle Peak, northwest of Lake Tahoe, when a group of 15 skiers, including professional guides, from the Sugar Bowl skiing community, were returning from a three-day expedition in severe winter conditions.

The PMD advised tourists to “remain extra cautious and avoid unnecessary travel during the next two days.”

Snow, sleet, freezing rain, and extremely cold temperatures are forecast to sweep the eastern two-thirds of the nation on Sunday and into the coming week.