A passenger train carrying about 80 people derailed early Monday morning after an avalanche struck near the village of Gopenstein in southern Switzerland, authorities said. Police confirmed the derailment occurred at 7am local time and warned that injuries were “possible”. According to Agence France-Presse, as of 10 a.m., 30 passengers in the affected carriages had been evacuated, and ambulances and rescue helicopters continued to operate. A spokesman for Swiss railway company BLS told 20 Minutes: “The train derailed due to an avalanche in the Stockgraben area.”According to the Independent, rescue teams have rushed to the scene and multiple casualties are expected.The train had departed from Spiez at 6:12 a.m. and was heading south toward Brig when the accident occurred. Rail traffic between Gopenstein and Brig. is suspended as a result, with service expected to continue at least through Tuesday, the Bureau of Labor Statistics said.Switzerland’s rail network is renowned for its extensive coverage and punctuality, connecting cities, towns and remote villages. Railroad enthusiasts from around the world travel along scenic routes, some of which include steep climbs.Authorities are continuing to assess the situation and provide medical care to those affected. In 2023, a storm near Bern caused two trains to derail within 20 minutes, injuring 15 people.This is a developing story…
