GENEVA: A strong explosion sparked a deadly fire at a bar in the Swiss ski resort of Crans-Montana early Thursday killing atleast 10 people.
According to Swiss media, several people were killed and dozens injured. Hospitals struggled to handle burn victims.
The blast happened around 1:30 am at a packed bar. More than 100 people were inside, police said.
Valais police spokesman Gaetan Lathion told Keystone-SDA the cause was still unclear.
Rescue teams rushed in and began a major evacuation. Authorities also set up a helpline for families. According to UK media atleast 10 people have been killed.
Doctors from Rega air rescue said hospitals across French-speaking Switzerland were under pressure.
Videos on social media showed flames tearing through the building. Ambulances and helicopters filled the area.
Eyewitnesses spoke of countless emergency vehicles at the scene.
Some reports linked the fire to New Year’s Eve fireworks. Police said investigations were ongoing.
Valais cantonal police are expected to brief media later today.
The incident comes weeks before the World Economic Forum meeting in Davos.
Swiss media often recall past alpine resort fires to stress safety concerns during peak winter tourism.
