California Today: As Inquiries Begin in Avalanche Deaths, a Question Emerges: Was Anyone at Fault?
Today's top stories from California.
The New York Times
California Today

February 20, 2026, 6:31 a.m. Pacific time

Today’s Top Story

More California News

Sierra Nevada Avalanche Killed a Group of 6 Moms Who Bonded Over the Outdoors

Families and friends of the women, many from the Bay Area, confirmed their identities. The women went on regular trips to the Tahoe region and were experienced skiers, the families said.

Another Storm Complicates Efforts to Recover Victims of Tahoe Avalanche

The sheriff’s office in Nevada County, Calif., said a storm that moved through early Thursday has slowed their work.

Warming Climate Can Increase Avalanche Risk, Studies Show

Research has pointed to the dangers of heavier and wetter snowfall, even as the number of snowy days decreases overall in California’s Sierra Nevada.

Eric Dane, McSteamy on ‘Grey’s Anatomy,’ Dies at 53

His breakout role came in 2006 as the handsome Dr. Mark Sloan, nicknamed McSteamy, the head of plastic surgery at a Seattle hospital. He died 10 months after announcing his A.L.S. diagnosis.

With New Momentum, Republican States Push Broader Limits for Trans Americans

In states that once focused mainly on health care and sports for transgender minors, debates now revolve around the validity of transgender identity.

‘The 2026 Oscar Nominated Short Films’ Review: Major Themes, Minor Lengths

Three critics briefly consider the short films nominated for the 98th Academy Awards.

Former Giants Exec Aims to Spread the Oakland Ballers Experience to Entire Bay Area

Yeshayah Goldfarb joins the Ballers as the team’s first president after 24 years as a key member of the Giants’ baseball operations group.

Police Investigate ICE Arrest of a Man Who Suffered Severe Head Injuries

The police in St. Paul, Minn., are investigating an arrest last month during the immigration crackdown. The man has said he was beaten by agents. ICE asserted that he ran into a wall.

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Today's Recipe

Article Image

Christopher Testani for The New York Times. Food Stylist: Monica Pierini.

Chickpea Vegetable Soup With Parmesan, Rosemary and Lemon

By Melissa Clark

Filled StarFilled StarFilled StarFilled StarFilled Star

4,120

1 1/2 to 2 hours

Makes 6 servings

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