Switzerland Avalanche Derails Train : Injuries Reported  2026

Key Points

• A passenger train derailed near Goppenstein in Valais canton, Switzerland, after being struck by an avalanche around 7am local time on February 16, 2026.
• Approximately 80 passengers were on board the BLS-operated RE1 service from Spiez to Brig/Domodossola.
• Several people injured; exact number and severity unknown as rescue operation continues.
• 30 passengers evacuated by 9-10am local time; helicopters and ambulances deployed.
• Derailment occurred in Stockgraben area between Goppenstein and Hohtenn in Lötschental valley.
• Valais cantonal police confirmed: “Train derailment, presumably with injured persons, operation underway, further information to follow” at 07:00.
• BLS spokesman stated: “The train derailed due to an avalanche that came down in the Stockgraben area. There are 80 people on board”.​
• Train services suspended between Goppenstein and Brig until at least 4pm or Tuesday 05:30 by Swiss Federal Railways (SBB).
• Heavy snowfall and wind-drifted snow raised avalanche alert to level 4 by WSL Institute.​
• Prior avalanche in the Goppenstein area on February 12 closed roads without injuries.

Inverted Pyramid Structure****

Goppenstein (Cardiff Daily) February 16, 2026 – A passenger train derailed in the canton of Valais near Goppenstein after an avalanche struck, injuring several people among roughly 80 onboard, as emergency services launched a major rescue amid heavy snowfall. Valais cantonal police confirmed the incident at around 7am local time (0600 GMT), with operations ongoing and 30 passengers evacuated by mid-morning. BLS, the train operator, attributed the derailment directly to the avalanche in the Stockgraben area.

What Caused the Valais Train Derailment?

As reported by Ben McCaffrey of GB News, a spokesman for train operator BLS said: “The train derailed due to an avalanche that came down in the Stockgraben area. There are 80 people on board. It is currently unclear whether the train was directly hit by the avalanche”. The RE1 service (4257) departed Spiez at 6:12am, heading towards Brig, when the avalanche hit between Goppenstein and Hohtenn. Heavy snowfall in the region is believed responsible, with the WSL Institute for Snow and Avalanche Research elevating the alert to level four due to fresh snow and wind.

This marks the second avalanche in the area within days; on February 12, another event temporarily isolated Lötschental valley and closed a car shuttle, described as an “extreme event” by the Federal Roads Office (ASTRA), though no injuries occurred as it slid prematurely before planned detonation.

How Many Casualties Are There in the Goppenstein Incident?

Valais cantonal police suspect multiple injuries but have not released exact figures or conditions, stating several people were hurt. As per Sven Ziegler of bluewin.ch, police announced at 07:52: “A train derailed in Goppenstein in the canton of Valais at around 7 a.m. on Monday morning… people were probably injured”. A police spokesman told Blick that “several persons were injured,” with numbers unclear amid ongoing efforts. Moneycontrol reported fears of casualties as rescuers scrambled, confirming “probably with injuries”. No fatalities confirmed yet.

What Is the Status of the Rescue Operation?

Rescue teams including Air Zermatt helicopters, two ambulances, and ground crews evacuated 30 passengers by 9:05am-10am, police confirmed via X post: “16.02.2026 – 07:00 Uhr, Goppenstein, Zugsentgleisung, vermutlich mit verletzten Personen, Einsatz läuft, weitere Informationen folgen”. The Evening Standard noted a BLS spokesperson told 20 Minuten that passengers “will be evacuated shortly”. The site remains cordoned off for investigations. Operations continue in challenging snowy terrain.

Which Train Services Are Disrupted by the Avalanche?

Swiss Federal Railways (SBB) suspended the Frutigen-Brig line between Goppenstein and Brig due to the avalanche, with delays and cancellations expected until at least 4pm or 05:30 on February 17. The RE1 route is primarily affected, impacting Lotschental valley access. BLS confirmed the impacted train.

Who Responded to the Valais Train Crash?

Valais cantonal police led the response, with BLS providing operator details to Rhone FM and 20 Minuten. Emergency services deployed air and ground assets; 20Minuten reported Air Zermatt helicopters involved. No further agencies named, but full cordon in place.

When Did the Avalanche Strike and What Were Conditions Like?

The derailment happened circa 7am local time on February 16, 2026, amid high avalanche risk from recent snow and wind. Police updated progressively: 07:00 initial alert, 08:41 ongoing, 10:00 30 evacuated. Prior to February 12 avalanche heightened regional alerts.

What Do Authorities Say About the Incident?

Valais police spokesman confirmed: “Train derailment, presumably with injured persons, operation underway, further information to follow”. BLS spokesman to GB News: “The train derailed due to an avalanche… 80 people on board”. Kapo to Blick: multiple injured. SBB: avalanche-related suspension. No cause beyond avalanche specified yet.

The full picture remains developing as rescuers prioritise safety in this remote Alpine area. Further updates expected from Valais police.