Train derails in Swiss Alps, authorities report possible injuries

Monday 16 - 12:30

By: Sahili Aya

Train derails in Swiss Alps, authorities report possible injuries

A regional train derailed early Monday morning in the southern Swiss Alps near Goppenstein, with local authorities reporting “probable” injuries and ongoing emergency operations.

The Valais cantonal police announced via social media that approximately 30 passengers were evacuated following the accident, which occurred at 07:00 local time (06:00 GMT) in the Stockgraben tunnel area between Goppenstein and Hohtenn, after the Lötschberg tunnel. Authorities warned that the region is under level four avalanche alert out of five.

A spokesperson for the BLS (Bern-Lötschberg-Simplon-Bahn) confirmed that the train involved is a regional service. Meanwhile, the Swiss Federal Railways (CFF) reported that rail traffic is suspended between Goppenstein and Brig due to the avalanche risk.

Authorities have not yet released further details on the cause of the derailment or the number of injured passengers. Emergency teams are currently on site, working to secure the area and provide assistance to those affected.

This incident follows a recent avalanche in the same region on Thursday, which temporarily blocked a section of the Lötschental valley road near Goppenstein. That event caused no injuries or significant damage but highlighted the ongoing risk of avalanches in the high-altitude Alpine terrain, where multimodal transport hubs like Goppenstein connect road and rail networks.

Officials urge travelers and residents to remain cautious and to monitor alerts as operations continue in the affected area.