On July 21, 2025, a 4.2 magnitude earthquake occurred near Mürren in the Bernese Oberland region of Switzerland. The Swiss Seismological Service (SED) reported that the quake struck at 12:52 p.m. local time, with the epicenter located near the popular tourist destination of Mürren. The tremor was felt across various parts of Switzerland, including areas as far as Basel and Sion. Residents in these regions reported noticeable shaking during the event.
Following the earthquake, there were reports of a rockfall in the Sefinental valley, a phenomenon that can occur in mountainous regions after seismic activity. However, local authorities did not receive any reports of significant damage or injuries. The SED noted that minor damage, such as cracks in plaster, could occur near the epicenter, particularly in buildings situated on unstable ground. Despite these potential effects, no major structural damage was reported in the affected areas.
Switzerland is seismically active, with the SED recording an average of three to four earthquakes per day in Switzerland and neighboring countries, totaling approximately 1,000 to 1,500 quakes annually. While many of these tremors are minor and go unnoticed, the recent earthquake near Mürren serves as a reminder of the country's ongoing seismic activity. The SED continues to monitor the situation and advises residents to stay informed about potential aftershocks in the coming days and weeks.
For more information on earthquake preparedness and safety measures, residents are encouraged to consult resources provided by the Swiss Federal Office for the Environment (FOEN) and the Swiss Seismological Service.