Truckee police warn of dangerous, unstable conditions on Donner Lake | News

TRUCKEE, CA - Ice skating on Donner Lake is considered dangerous now as weather conditions warm up, Truckee police said.

Sgt. Jason Litchie said the ice on the lake is unstable. While conditions in the past month were extremely cold, the recent warmer weather has made the ice unpredictable.

"Ice skating on a lake is an unusual thing to do, and it can be a lot of fun. But for us, the conditions on our local lakes, especially Donner Lake, is just plain dangerous - the ice is not stable," Litchie said.

About five years ago, a skater fell through the ice and drowned; the conditions then were similar to current conditions.

"We have had numerous ice related incidents and fatalities at our area lakes over the years, and we have areas of open water not far off shore," Truckee Fire Protection District Capt. Paul Spencer said. "Yearly statistics show upwards of 235 people die from falling through ice. Please be aware of your surroundings and how many people are with you on the ice."

Litchie said if people do decide to skate on the ice, they should consider wearing a life jacket, bringing a rope, and always bring along a buddy.