A regional train derailment in southwestern Switzerland on Monday morning has prompted temporary rail closures and replacement services after an avalanche struck tracks near Goppenstein in the canton of Valais.
According to local police, the incident occurred at approximately 7 a.m. local time on Feb. 16, 2026, as a BLS RegioExpress train was traveling from Spiez to Brig. The train derailed shortly after exiting the Stockgalerie—an avalanche protection gallery—near the Lötschberg tunnel portal.
Injuries and Passenger Safety
Authorities confirmed that 29 passengers were onboard at the time of the derailment. All were safely evacuated. Five individuals sustained injuries; one passenger was transported to a hospital in Sion for treatment, while four others were treated at the scene and did not require hospitalization.
The region was under a Level 4 (High) avalanche warning at the time of the incident. Preliminary findings from Valais cantonal police indicate that an avalanche crossed the tracks moments before the train passed, depositing snow and debris that led to the derailment.
Operational Impact for Travelers
Rail service between Goppenstein and Brig was immediately suspended following the accident. Swiss rail operators Swiss Federal Railways (SBB) and BLS AG initially estimated service disruptions would last through early Tuesday morning.
As of today, replacement bus services are operating between Goppenstein and Gampel-Steg to accommodate commuters and travelers.
The public prosecutor’s office has opened a formal investigation to determine the precise circumstances surrounding the derailment and whether any additional contributing factors were involved.
