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A devastating crash between two passenger trains in Austria has left at least one person dead and 22 more injured, including three children.

Dramatic images have captured the impact of the side-on crash, which appears to have ripped off the entire metal work from one train and derailed several carriages.

A total of 19 rescue and two emergency medical vehicles were sent to the scene, with teams searching through the destruction for survivors.

But much-needed air support was unavailable - due to the persistent bad weather and heavy snow.

The tragic incident occurred in Niklasdorf near Leoben on Monday afternoon, at around 12.45pm local time (11.45am GMT).

(Image: Twitter) (Image: AFP)

According to Austrian police, one woman has been killed and a further 22 people have been injured in the crash which has brought public transport in the area to a standstill.

Pictures and news reports appear to show the incident was a 'flank collision' (side on collision) causing at least one set of carriages to derail.

The crash involved a EuroCity cross-border train and a commuter train.

(Image: Google)

The victims are now being transported to hospital.

The Austrian Federal Railways said on their website "Due to an accident, no rides are currently possible between Bruck/Mur and Leoben Hbf. We have requested a rail replacement service.

"Measures and information about the night train traffic in this area are currently being prepared and [will be] announced soon.

"You are currently [expecting] 30 - 60 minute [delay] to travel time in this area. We apologise for any inconvenience.

"Our sympathy goes to the families and relatives of the victims."