Swiss Train Derails After Avalanche in Alps, Multiple Injuries Reported
Multiple people have been injured after a train derailed in Switzerland following an avalanche near the Swiss Alps, according to police reports. The incident occurred near Goppenstein in the Valais region at approximately 7am local time (6am GMT) on Monday, 16 February 2026.
Rescue Efforts Underway for Evacuated Passengers
Around 30 people have been evacuated so far after emergency services arrived on the scene. Swiss media outlet 20Minuten reported that approximately 80 people were believed to be onboard the train at the time of the derailment. Rescue efforts are being coordinated with Air Zermatt helicopters and two ambulances currently involved in the operation.
Train company BLS confirmed that the train derailed due to an avalanche that came down in the Stockgraben area. The site has been entirely cordoned off as investigations continue, with emergency services not yet providing detailed information on casualties.
Train Route and Service Disruptions
The train departed from the town of Spiez, located on the shores of Lake Thun, at 6:12am. Authorities suspect that the line will remain closed until at least 4am on Tuesday (3am GMT), causing significant disruptions to local transport services.
Police have warned that injuries are likely, and rescuers are scrambling to reach survivors amidst challenging conditions in the alpine region. The incident highlights the ongoing risks associated with winter travel in mountainous areas, particularly during periods of heavy snowfall and avalanche activity.
