A regional train derailment in Switzerland has left five people injured after an early morning accident believed to be linked to avalanche activity, authorities confirmed on Monday.
Nijatravels reports that the incident occurred near the town of Goppenstein in southern Switzerland, an area experiencing severe winter conditions and high avalanche warnings. Officials said about 29 passengers were on board when the train derailed shortly after exiting a tunnel along the route.
Emergency responders arrived at the scene shortly after the accident and safely evacuated passengers. Authorities confirmed that five individuals sustained injuries, with one person transported to hospital for further medical treatment. The remaining passengers were treated at the scene or assisted to safety without major complications.
Preliminary findings indicate that an avalanche may have crossed the railway line shortly before the train approached the affected section of track. Heavy snowfall in the region had already prompted warnings from local authorities, as avalanche risks were rated high at the time of the incident.
The derailment led to temporary suspension of train services between Goppenstein and Brig, disrupting transportation along one of the key rail routes in the region. Rail officials stated that safety inspections were immediately initiated while recovery operations and investigations continued.
Local police confirmed that the public prosecutor’s office has opened an investigation to determine the exact cause of the accident. Authorities also restricted access to the area due to ongoing avalanche risks and adverse weather conditions, urging the public and media to avoid the scene for safety reasons.
Switzerland is widely known for its efficient and reliable railway network, which serves as a major mode of transportation for residents and tourists. Despite the country’s strong safety record, extreme weather conditions during winter periods occasionally pose challenges to rail operations, particularly in mountainous regions prone to avalanches.
Travel experts note that while such incidents remain rare, severe weather can temporarily affect transportation schedules across parts of Europe during winter months. Passengers planning journeys through affected routes have been advised to check travel updates and service announcements before departure.
Authorities continue to monitor weather developments while restoration work progresses on the affected rail line. Further updates are expected as investigations into the derailment advance and services gradually resume.