A passenger train packed with around 80 people derailed near Goppenstein, Switzerland, early Monday morning (February 16), after a powerful avalanche swept the tracks in the Stockgraben area. As of midday, police confirmed that at least 30 passengers had been evacuated, with helicopters and emergency crews battling through heavy snowfall to reach the scene.
Rescue Underway Amid Harsh Alpine Conditions
According to Police Valais, the derailment occurred shortly after the train departed Spiez at 6:12 am, heading south towards Brig. The avalanche struck near Goppenstein, forcing several carriages off the tracks. Rescue teams rushed to the remote site, deploying helicopters and specialized equipment due to the deep snow and ongoing risk of further avalanches.
Swiss railway operator Bern-Lötschberg-Simplon (BLS) said, “The train derailed due to an avalanche that came down in the Stockgraben area.” Local authorities have not yet confirmed the number of injured, but they indicated that injuries are “likely” and multiple casualties are feared. The full scale of the incident is still emerging, with reports from Swiss outlets echoing concerns for those trapped or hurt.
Train Services Disrupted Across the Region
Heavy snowfall across the Alps in recent days has triggered several avalanche warnings in the canton of Valais. Just five days earlier, another avalanche had isolated a local valley nearby. Due to the heightened risk, BLS announced that train services on the Frutigen-Brig line, as well as other regional lines, have been suspended until at least 4 pm today—and possibly as late as 4 am on Tuesday, February 17.
The affected train left Spiez at 6:12 am and was traveling southbound towards Brig when disaster struck. Webcams in Goppenstein showed thick snowfall blanketing the area at the time. Swiss railway officials and local police continue to monitor the situation closely and urge residents and travelers to heed safety warnings, as further avalanches remain a real risk.
This derailment marks the second avalanche-related disruption to hit the region in just over a week. Authorities had warned of a high avalanche risk due to intense snowfall and strong winds, conditions that have also led to deadly avalanches in neighboring France, where at least four skiers—including two British citizens—were killed in recent days.
As the rescue operation continues, Swiss officials are calling for patience and caution, promising updates as more information about the passengers’ condition becomes available.
