A magnitude 4.2 earthquake shakes the tourist town of Mürren in Switzerland!

A magnitude 4.2 earthquake shakes the tourist town of Mürren in Switzerland!

A huge earthquake struck Mürren in the Bernese Oberland on Monday, July 21, 2025, at 12:52 p.m. With a magnitude of 4.2 on the Richter scale and a depth of just 0.3 to 1 kilometer below the earth's surface, numerous residents and tourists felt the tremors in large parts of Switzerland. As Merkur reports, more than 350 reports were received by the Swiss Seismological Service (SED) in the first 30 minutes after the quake, which shows how badly the region was affected.

The effects of the quake, which was felt in a line from Basel to Sion, are particularly noteworthy. Witnesses reported hearing a deafening boom, followed by a remarkable tremor. The tremors also caused a dangerous rockfall in the Sefinental. Fortunately, no injuries were reported, but minor damage such as cracks in the plaster on vulnerable buildings near the epicenter is possible, as the SED experts note.

Experts give the all-clear

The earthquake experts classify the event as danger level 3 and have given the all-clear for now. Despite the worrying nature of the quake, they do not expect major damage. “Minor cracks may occur, but the situation appears to be stable,” said an SED spokesman. Experts also warn that aftershocks can be expected in the coming days and weeks. These could also be noticeable and should be taken seriously by residents and visitors.

It's no secret that seismic activity in the Bernese Oberland has increased in recent weeks. A foreshock of magnitude 2.3 was recorded four days before the main earthquake, and a stronger earthquake with a magnitude of 3.5 also occurred in the same region on September 26, 2024. The ongoing activity makes it clear that a lot is happening in the earth beneath Mürren, and the now slightly increased frequency of vibrations signals a certain unrest in the subsurface.

A popular tourist destination under pressure

Mürren is not only an idyllic mountain village, but also a popular destination for tourists who want to enjoy the beauty of the Swiss Alps. Experts agree that the quake could have a short-term impact on tourism, but the village is expected to continue to attract visitors. The longing for alpine adventures remains strong, and the anticipation of unforgettable experiences in nature is unbroken.

Finally, all affected residents and holidaymakers should remain vigilant and follow the instructions of local authorities. A good knack for dealing with the situation can ensure that you get through this turbulent time safe and sound. According to ETH Zurich, the recommendation is for everyone: prepare for possible aftershocks and stay informed!