Explosion and fire at a hydropower plant in Switzerland kill two workers

Two people died following an explosion at an old hydropower plant in southern Switzerland, local authorities said.

The accident occurred at the facility in the village of Piota, in the canton of Ticino. Police reported that the explosion also caused a fire, while the two workers involved later died from their injuries.

One of the victims was a 55-year-old Swiss national. Authorities have not yet disclosed the identity of the other worker.

The flames and explosion caused extensive damage to the hydropower plant building. Meanwhile, an investigation has been launched to determine the full causes and circumstances of the accident.

State broadcaster RSI reported that the hydropower plant was being renovated, as the facility had been included in reconstruction plans.