Perthshire Rocked by Rare Earthquake Swarm, Leaving Residents Rattled

On the morning of October 20, 2025, the Perthshire region of Scotland was hit by a rare earthquake swarm, with three tremors striking within just 17 minutes. The first quake, measuring 3.3 magnitude, struck the hamlet of Pubil at 7:25 am, according to the British Geological Survey. This was followed by a 1.4 magnitude tremor at 7:31 am and a 1.2 magnitude quake 11 minutes later.

Residents reported being woken by light shaking in their homes, with some hearing a "low rumbling sound" and doors rattling. Observers living up to 50 miles away also reported very weak shaking, highlighting the unusual reach of the initial tremor.

Eyewitnesses described their confusion, with some initially thinking an explosion had occurred. Others reported homes shaking, with furniture moving and doors rattling as the tremors continued.

Earthquakes in the UK are relatively common, with 200-300 minor quakes occurring each year. However, the seismic activity in Scotland is largely attributed to glacial rebound and tectonic stresses from the Atlantic Ocean's expansion and the northward push of Africa into Europe.

The largest recorded Scottish earthquake occurred near Loch Awe in 1880, reaching a magnitude of 5.2. While the recent Perthshire tremors were relatively minor, they serve as a reminder of the region's dynamic geological landscape.