A devastating collision involving two high-speed trains in the municipality of Adamuz, located in Córdoba province, has resulted in numerous fatalities and injuries, as officials scramble to grasp the full scope of the catastrophe.
As reported by CNN en Español, the incident took place when an Iryo train, traveling the Málaga–Madrid route, derailed near Adamuz, veering onto an adjacent track and causing another train, heading from Madrid to Huelva, to derail as well.
The emergency services in Andalusia initially announced at least five deaths and 25 serious injuries, although these figures are provisional and may rise as rescue operations continue.
European media outlets have provided even more alarming statistics. Euronews reported that the crash between the Iryo train and a Renfe Alvia could have resulted in at least ten fatalities and over a hundred injuries, with many passengers trapped amidst tangled metal.
Footage shared by passengers shows overturned carriages, shattered windows, and individuals climbing to escape through the roofs amid smoke and pandemonium.
Eyewitnesses likened the impact to an "earthquake." Salvador Jiménez, a journalist with RTVE who was aboard one of the trains, recounted how passengers broke windows to escape, desperately calling for medical assistance.
El País reported that the derailment has completely halted rail traffic between Andalusia and Madrid, a major transportation artery in Spain.
The railway infrastructure manager, Adif, announced that high-speed rail service remains suspended and that technical teams are collaborating with emergency services to aid victims and secure the site.
This disaster activated the Civil Protection Territorial Emergency Plan in Andalusia, mobilizing firefighters, the Civil Guard, the Red Cross, and medical personnel from various hospitals in Córdoba, putting out an urgent call for additional staff to help treat the injured.
Authorities on the scene acknowledge the severity of the situation, as investigations into the initial derailment's cause are just beginning.
Understanding the Train Collision in Spain
What caused the train collision in Adamuz, Spain?
The collision occurred when an Iryo train derailed near Adamuz, veering onto an adjacent track, causing another train traveling from Madrid to Huelva to derail as well.
How many casualties resulted from the train collision in Spain?
Initial reports indicated at least five deaths and 25 serious injuries, but these numbers are subject to change. Some reports suggest there may be up to ten fatalities and over a hundred injuries.
What measures have been taken following the train collision?
The Civil Protection Territorial Emergency Plan was activated, mobilizing emergency services including firefighters, the Civil Guard, and the Red Cross to assist those affected.