Key facts
- Two workers died in an explosion and fire at an old hydroelectric power plant in Piotta, Switzerland.
- The incident caused extensive damage to the plant.
- One victim was a 55-year-old Swiss man; the other is still being identified.
- The cause of the explosion is under investigation.
- Separately, a fire at a ski resort bar killed 40 people and injured 115.
- The resort fire is believed to be accidental, possibly from fireworks.
Two workers died on Wednesday following an explosion and fire at an old hydroelectric power plant in Piotta, southern Switzerland. The incident, which caused extensive damage, is currently under investigation. One of the deceased workers was a 55-year-old Swiss man; the other is still being identified. The old power plant is currently undergoing renovation as part of plans to reconfigure the facility.
In a separate incident, approximately 40 people were killed and 115 injured in a fire that erupted at a crowded bar in the ski resort town of Crans-Montana on New Year's Eve. Swiss officials are investigating the cause of the blaze, with preliminary findings suggesting it may have been accidental, potentially triggered by fireworks or sparklers. Authorities have indicated that the fire was not caused by an explosive device and no crime is suspected.
Switzerland will observe five days of mourning for the victims of the resort fire. The victims are expected to be of various nationalities, with reports indicating at least 16 Italians are missing or being treated in hospitals.