The UK embassy in Switzerland has issues an urgent statement after dozens have died and 100 have been injured in a horror New Years explosion at a ski resort.
“Several tens of people” were killed in the blaze at the Le Constellation bar, according to Valais Canton police commander Frederic Gisler.
The UK embassy in the Switzerland, located in the capital of Bern, has posted a statement on X.
It read: “Swiss emergency services are responding to a fire in Crans-Montana, with nationals from multiple countries likely affected. We continue to monitor the situation.
(Image: AFP via Getty Images)
“Whilst we have not been approached for assistance, our staff stand ready to support British nationals abroad 24/7.
“If you are a British national in need of consular assistance, you can call us 24/7 on + 44 (0) 20 7008 5000.”
The explosion reportedly ripped through Le Constellation bar in Crans-Montana at 1.30am on New Year’s Day while festivities were in full-swing.
Footage depicts the chaotic scenes following the explosion, with crowds of people flooding onto the streets while enormous flames burst from the bar.
(Image: AFP via Getty Images)
Medical sources have said that hospitals are “overwhelmed” with burn victims following the incident. The explosion occurred in the basement of the bar at around 01:30am. The basement of the bar reportedly had only one escape and access route.
The Valais, Switzerland State Council has declared a state of emergency to mobilise necessary resources.
The UK Foreign Office has also said it will ‘continue to monitor the situation’ as the Swiss ski resort was popular with British tourists.
A spokesperson told the Mirror: “Our thoughts are with all those injured and killed in the terrible tragedy in Crans-Montana, and we pay tribute to the Swiss emergency services who are leading the response.
“We will continue to monitor the situation, and our consular staff stand ready to support any British nationals who may be affected.”
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