A train derailed in Switzerland on , injuring five people, after an avalanche swept across the tracks near the village of Goppenstein in the Valais canton. Emergency services responded to the incident, evacuating all 29 passengers on board.
The BLS AG regional train was travelling from Spiez to Brig when it derailed at approximately 7:00 am local time, according to police reports. Authorities suspect an avalanche crossed the railway line shortly before the train passed through the area between Goppenstein and Hohtenn, as it emerged from a tunnel. One injured passenger was transported to the hospital in Sion, while four others received treatment at the scene.
A significant emergency response was launched, involving eight mountain rescuers, two ambulances, a helicopter, and two fire and rescue trains. All passengers were safely evacuated by midday, and a replacement bus service was established. The Public Prosecutor’s Office has initiated an investigation to determine the precise circumstances surrounding the derailment.
The incident occurred amidst a period of heightened avalanche risk across the Alps, following a week of heavy snowfall and strong winds. Authorities had issued warnings about a category 5 avalanche risk – the highest level – in the Valais canton last week. The railway company, BLS, has suspended services on the Frutigen-Brig line until at least .
This derailment is the latest in a series of avalanche-related incidents in the Alps. Recent days have seen multiple fatalities involving off-piste skiers in both France and Italy. On , two British citizens were among three skiers killed in an avalanche in Val d’Isère, France, while skiing with an instructor. A French national skiing alone also died in a separate incident. On , two skiers lost their lives in an avalanche on the Italian side of Mont Blanc.
The Swiss police confirmed that the train derailed “due to an avalanche that came down in the Stockgraben area.” The railway company spokesperson stated that snow still covered the tracks as emergency services secured the scene.
The broader context of these events highlights the increasing dangers posed by extreme weather conditions in the Alpine region. The combination of heavy snowfall and fluctuating temperatures creates unstable snowpack, significantly increasing the risk of avalanches. The category 5 avalanche warning indicates a particularly high level of danger, even for experienced mountaineers and skiers.
The incident in Switzerland underscores the vulnerability of transportation infrastructure to natural disasters in mountainous regions. While preventative measures are in place, including avalanche control and monitoring systems, the sheer scale of recent snowfall has presented significant challenges. The investigation into the derailment will likely focus on assessing the effectiveness of these measures and identifying any potential improvements.
The disruption to rail services on the Frutigen-Brig line will impact regional connectivity and potentially affect both passenger and freight transport. The suspension of services is expected to last at least until , as crews work to clear the tracks and assess the stability of the surrounding slopes.
The recent spate of avalanche incidents across the Alps serves as a stark reminder of the power of nature and the importance of respecting mountain environments. Authorities continue to urge caution and advise individuals to heed avalanche warnings and avoid off-piste skiing in areas with high risk levels. The ongoing emergency response efforts demonstrate the commitment of Swiss authorities to ensuring the safety of both residents and visitors in the face of challenging weather conditions.
