Mudslides cause route interruptions in Styria and Tyrol

(17.05.2023) – Against the background of the heavy rainfall and the resulting wet soils, there is currently a danger of landslides and mudslides all over Austria. The railway lines between Spielfeld-Straß and Leibnitz as well as Roppen and Imst-Pitztal are currently affected by closures. At the moment, no reliable forecasts can be made about the duration of the disruptions. ÖBB staff and geologists are on site to assess the situation and derive further measures.

Specifically, a mudslide occurred in the area of Ehrenhausen in Styria yesterday evening. A Cityjet, which was going from Spielfeld in the direction of Graz, hit a mudflow and partially derailed. The driver was slightly injured in the accident, there were no further injuries. The line between Leibnitz and Spielfeld-Straß is closed until further notice. The overhead line was slightly damaged by the mudflow. Rail replacement bus services have been set up for long-distance trains between Graz Hbf & Spielfeld-Straß and for local trains between Leibnitz & Spielfeld-Straß. Freight traffic is being rerouted. During the morning, the slope will be examined by geologists. At this point in time, the duration of the closure cannot yet be estimated.

Due to a mudslide and the undermining of protective structures, it is also currently not possible to travel on the line between Roppen and Imst-Pitztal. ÖBB has set up a rail replacement bus service between Ötztal and Landeck-Zams. Travel time extensions of up to 60 minutes are to be expected. Geologists are currently assessing the situation here as well. A first forecast is expected in the course of the day. The duration of the closure is therefore not yet foreseeable.

For further information, please refer to ÖBB SCOTTY and the ÖBB customer service: 05-1717.