Heads up if you’re traveling through the Alps today. There has been a significant incident on the Lötschberg mountain line (connecting the Interlaken area with the south).
Early this morning, Monday, February 16, 2026, a RegioExpress (RE1) train traveling from Spiez to Brig derailed near Goppenstein after being struck by an avalanche in the Stockgraben area.
NOTE: There are also disruptions in a variety of other areas.
- on the way to Zermatt: Herbriggen–Täsch suspended (see timetables sbb.ch/en)
- Furka car transport
- Oberwald–Niederwald: no travel possible today
- Andermatt–Tschamut-Selva suspended from 6:00 p.m
The Details
Around 7:00 AM, the train was hit by snow between Goppenstein and Hohtenn. There were approximately 30 passengers on board at the time. Five people were injured; one was flown to the hospital in Sion for treatment, while the others were cared for on-site. A major rescue operation involving Air Zermatt helicopters and specialized rail teams has successfully evacuated everyone from the train.
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Current Train Status
If you are planning to use the mountain route, expect major delays and changes as replacement buses are in operation.
Here is what is happening:
- Direct trains between North and South using the tunnel are in operation. More local trains (like from Kandersteg) are not. CHECK THE SBB APP or timetable
- Line Closure: The tracks between Goppenstein and Brig are completely closed to traffic.
- Estimated Reopening: BLS and SBB currently expect the interruption to last until at least 5:30 AM tomorrow, Tuesday, February 17.
- Alternative Travel: Replacement buses are operating between Goppenstein and Visp/Brig.
- Tunnel Impact: The Lötschberg Base Tunnel (the high-speed route) remains unaffected by this specific incident, though you should check the SBB app for any minor ripple-effect delays.
The avalanche risk in Valais remains high (Level 4) due to heavy snowfall and wind. This primarily affects off-piste skiers.
Please stay safe and check your connections before heading out.
