A train has derailed in eastern Scotland, killing three people, including the driver.  The incident happened after a landslide caused by heavy overnight rain, which some reports are claiming caused the train to leave the tracks. 

Around 30 emergency vehicles attended the scene near Stonehaven, Aberdeenshire, on Wednesday morning and Scottish premier Nicola Sturgeon described it as an "extremely serious" incident. 

Aerial images show what appears to be burnt carriages overturned after colliding with each other. The incident involved the 06:38 ScotRail service from Aberdeen to Glasgow Queen Street.

British Transport Police said: "Very sadly, despite the best efforts of paramedics, we can confirm that three people have been pronounced dead at the scene.

"While formal identification is yet to take place, the driver of the train is very sadly believed to have died. His family have been informed and are being supported by specially trained family liaison officers.

"Officers are continuing to work to inform the families of the other two people who sadly died. Six people have been taken to hospital to be treated for injuries, which thankfully are not believed to be serious."

Sturgeon said  her sympathies were with the victims' families: "My deepest condolences are with the loved ones of those who lost their lives in this tragic incident."

The ScotRail train is usually made up of two locomotives, one at the front and one at the back, and four passenger carriages. The front locomotive and three of the carriages had left the track and were sitting on a river embankment.

CGTN Europe correspondent Nawied Jabarkhyl, who is in Edinburgh, said there was heavy rain and thunderstorms throughout Tuesday evening and into Wednesday morning. It has been suggested these storms may have caused the landslide that happened near the site of the derailment, although that was not confirmed by the authorities.

Sources told CGTN that 12 people were onboard the early morning service, as many citizens in Scotland continue to work from home following the outbreak of the coronavirus..

Police Chief Superintendent Eddie Wylie said: "This is a tragic incident and first and foremost our thoughts are with the families and friends of those who have very sadly died this morning.

"We remain on scene alongside our emergency service colleagues and a major incident operation has been underway. I would like to reassure the public that this was not a busy service and from CCTV enquiries and witness statements, we believe all passengers have been accounted for. However, once the area has been made safe, then a full and thorough search will be conducted, which is likely to take some time."