Regional train derails after hitting storm-felled tree in Bavaria

A regional train partially derailed after striking a tree that had fallen across the tracks near Fridolfing in Traunstein district, BR reported. The approximately 40 passengers were unhurt and taken away by bus.

The crash happened shortly before 5 p.m. on Wednesday as storm-force gusts swept through the district and uprooted several trees. The impact caused the front section of the train to leave the tracks and slide several hundred metres along the ballast.

The train returned to the rails at the next set of points, according to a spokesperson for the Federal Police in Freilassing. The train and track bed were significantly damaged.

The damaged train was due to be removed on Thursday. Repairs to the track were also required, and replacement bus services were introduced between Garching an der Alz and Freilassing. It was not yet known when trains would resume on the route.

A separate incident occurred in Upper Palatinate on Wednesday evening, when another regional train hit a fallen tree on the line between Sulzbach-Rosenberg and Amberg. No passengers were injured, but the train driver suffered shock.